Medical Terminology

Study Guide

Medical Terminology

Thea Liza Batan

About the Author

Thea Liza Batan earned a Master of Science in Nursing Administration in 2007 from

Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio. She has worked as a staff nurse, nurse instructor,

and level department head. She currently works as a simulation coordinator and a free-

lance writer specializing in nursing and healthcare.

All terms mentioned in this text that are known to be trademarks or service marks have been appropriately

capitalized. Use of a term in this text shouldn’t be regarded as affecting the validity of any trademark or

service mark.

form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information

storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Requests for permission to make copies of any part of the work should be mailed to Copyright Permissions,

Penn Foster, 925 Oak Street, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18515.

Printed in the United States of America

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Contents

CONTENTS

INSTRUCTIONS 1

READING ASSIGNMENTS 3

LESSON 1: THE FUNDAMENTALS OF MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY 5

LESSON 2: DIAGNOSIS, INTERVENTION,

AND HUMAN BODY TERMS 28

LESSON 3: MUSCULOSKELETAL, CIRCULATORY,

AND RESPIRATORY SYSTEM TERMS 44

LESSON 4: DIGESTIVE, URINARY,

AND REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM TERMS 69

LESSON 5: INTEGUMENTARY, NERVOUS,

AND ENDOCRINE SYSTEM TERMS 96

SELF-CHECK ANSWERS 134

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Instructions

INSTRUCTIONS

INTRODUCTION

Welcome to your course on medical terminology. You’re taking this course because

you’re most likely interested in pursuing a health and science career, which entails

prociencyincommunicatingwithhealthcareprofessionalssuchasphysicians,nurses,

or dentists.

As an aspiring member of a healthcare team, accurate understanding, pronunciation,

spelling,anddenitionoffrequentlyusedmedicaltermsisimperative.Thetextbookenti-

tled Quick & Easy Medical Terminology, 8th Edition, by Peggy C. Leonard will provide

basic knowledge and understanding of medical terminologies. Competence in using med-

ical language doesn’t happen instantaneously. A strong medical vocabulary is a product

of excellent time management skills and fervent commitment by the student.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

When you complete this section, you’ll be able to do the following:



Identify word parts and write medical terms accurately



Utilizesufxestobuildmedicalterminologiesrelatedtosurgicalprocedures,medi-

cal conditions, specialists, and specialties



Recognizeanduseprexesinwritingmedicalterms



Distinguish and analyze medical terms associated with the digestive system



Identify and be familiar with medical terminologies pertaining to the integumentary

system

COURSE MATERIALS

This course includes the following materials:

1. This study guide, which contains an introduction to your course, plus



A lesson assignments page with a schedule of study assignments, as well as

exams for the lessons you’ll complete during this course



Individual sections that cover each of the main points of each lesson



Self-checks and answers to help you assess your understanding of the

material

2. Your course textbook, Quick and Easy Medical Terminology, 8th Edition, which

contains the assignment reading material

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Instructions

YOUR TEXTBOOK

Your textbook, Quick and Easy Medical Terminology, 8th Edition, by Peggy C. Leonard

contains the material on which you’ll be tested. You need to become familiar with this

textbook before beginning your studies.

You’ll want to begin by skimming the table of contents. This will give you an overview of

the entire textbook. Read the preface as a brief introduction to the textbook. Appendices,

found at the end of the text, provide medical abbreviations, word parts and their mean-

ings, and answers to self-check questions. Following the appendices are a bibliography

and photo credits, as well as an index.

STUDY PLAN

Think of this study guide as a blueprint for your course. You should read it carefully. Using

thefollowingproceduresshouldhelpyoureceivethemaximumbenetfromyourstudies:



Read the lessons in the study guide to introduce you to concepts that are discussed

in the textbook. The lessons emphasize the important material discussed in the text

and provide additional tips or examples to help you grasp the material.



Note the chapters for each assignment in the textbook and read the assignment

in the textbook to get a general idea of its content. Study the assignment, paying

attention to all details, especially the main concepts.



Answer the questions and problems provided in the self-checks in the study guide.

This will serve as a review of the material covered.



After answering the suggested questions, check your answers with those given in

the back of the study guide. If you miss any questions, review the pages of the text-

book covering those questions. The self-checks are designed to reveal weak points

that you need to review. Do not send the self-check answers to the school. They’re

for you to evaluate your understanding of the material. Complete each assignment

in this way.



After you’ve completed and checked the self-checks for Lesson 1, go to your stu-

dentportalandcompleteyourrstexam.



Follow this procedure for all lessons. At any time, you can contact your instructor

for information regarding the materials.

Remember to check your student portal regularly. Additional resources

to enhance your learning experience may be posted.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Reading Assignments

READING ASSIGNMENTS

Lesson 1: The Fundamentals of Medical Terminology

Read in the study guide: Read in the textbook:

Section 1.1 Chapter 1

Section 1.2 Chapter 2

Section 1.3 Chapter 3

Examination 427782RR

Lesson 2: Diagnosis, Intervention, and Human Body Terms

Read in the study guide: Read in the textbook:

Section 2.1 Chapter 4

Section 2.2 Chapter 5

Examination 427783RR

Lesson 3: Musculoskeletal, Circulatory, and Respiratory

System Terms

Read in the study guide: Read in the textbook:

Section 3.1 Chapter 6

Section 3.2 Chapter 7

Section 3.3 Chapter 8

Examination 427784RR

Lesson 4: Digestive, Urinary, and Reproductive System Terms

Read in the study guide: Read in the textbook:

Section 4.1 Chapter 9

Section 4.2 Chapter 10

Section 4.3 Chapter 11

Examination 427785RR

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Reading Assignments

Lesson 5: Integumentary, Nervous, and Endocrine System Terms

Read in the study guide: Read in the textbook:

Section 5.1 Chapter 12

Section 5.2 Chapter 13

Section 5.3 Chapter 14

Section 5.4 Chapter 15

Examination 427786RR

Note: To access and complete any of the examinations for this study guide, click the

appropriate Take Exam icon on your student portal. You shouldn’t have to enter the

examination numbers. These numbers are for reference only if you have reason to

contact Student Services.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

LESSON 1: THE FUNDAMENTALS

OF MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

INTRODUCTION

Foralayperson,learningmedicallanguagemayseemdifcult,butitbecomeseasieras

one gets to know the origin and meaning of medical terms. For healthcare professionals,

it’s already second nature. The majority of the medical terms are borrowed from Latin

and Greek, but it’s unnecessary for you to learn these languages to become experts in

the use of and understanding of medical terms. All you need to do is to study and learn

word parts.

SECTION 1.1: SIMPLIFIED MEDICAL

LANGUAGE

Read the following section, then read Chapter 1 in your textbook.

Objectives

When you complete this section, you’ll be able to identify word parts and write medi-

cal terms properly.

SIMPLIFIED MEDICAL LANGUAGE

The building block for most medical terms is the word root, or the primary body of a word.

At times, a medical term can be made up of compound words. A compound word may

consist of two word roots, such as in the case of collarbone (collar + bone).

To facilitate the pronunciation of words, a combining vowel is placed in between word

roots.Asignicantnumberofmedicaltermsusethevowel“o”.However,it’sgoodtonote

that“o”isn’ttheonlyvowel.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

The following table demonstrates examples of roots and combining forms.

Word Root Combining Vowel

Combining

Form Meaning Use in a Word

acr + o acr/o extremity acrocyanosis

psych + o psych/o mind psychology

chol + e chol/e bile cholesterase

PREFIXES AND SUFFIXES

Prexesandsufxesmayaccompanyawordroottoalteritsmeaning.Aprex is

attached before the word, while a sufx is placed at the end of a word root. Sometimes, a

wordmayconsistofaprexandasufxonly.

Prex + Combining form + Sufx

electro + cardi/o + gram

(electrocardiogram)

Prex + Sufx

hyper + emia

(hyperemia)

Bynow,you’vealreadylearnedwordparts.Wordroots,combiningforms,prexes,and

sufxesareallwordparts.

WRITING MEDICAL TERMS

Building words follows certain guidelines. Table 2 presents some common rules in word

building.

Guidelines Examples

Linking combining

forms

In most instances, the com-

bining vowel is retained amid

combining forms.

leuk/o + cyte

cardi/o + logy

leukocyte

cardiology

Linking combining

formsandsufxes

Use a combining vowel

ifthesufxbeginswitha

consonant.

crani/o + tomy

derm/a + tology

craniotomy

dermatology

Linking combining

formsandsufxes

with initial vowels

Omit the combining vowel

ifthesufxbeginswitha

vowel.

appendic/o + itis

enter/o + ic

appendicitis

enteric

Linking other word

partsandprexes

Usually,prexesneednotbe

changed when linked with

other word parts.

dys + pepsia

intra +dermal

dyspepsia

intradermal

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

To better recognize the parts that make up a medical term, word division is commonly

used throughout this course. For instance, appendectomy may be written as append +

ectomy to highlight its component parts.

EPONYMS

Eponyms are names derived from a proper noun. They may originate from the name

ofaperson,place,orthing.Inthemedicaleld,diseases,organs,procedures,or

body functions can be eponyms; hence, they are frequently capitalized. Examples of

eponyms include Alzheimer’s disease, after Alois Alzheimer, and Babinski sign, after

Joseph Babinski.

ABBREVIATIONS AND PHARMACOLOGY

An abbreviation is a shortened form of a word or phrase. Abbreviations can be in the

form of:



Letters: The abbreviation for chest x-ray is CXR.



Shortenedwords:Theabbreviation“tab”isshortfor“tablet.”



Acronyms: The acronym CPR stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Note: Abbreviations and symbols should be used cautiously, especially when med-

ications are involved. The Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) and The

Joint Commission (TJC) provide a list of unsafe abbreviations and symbols.

The branch of science that deals with the preparation, properties, uses, and actions of

drugs is known as pharmacology. Drugs, most commonly referred to as medicines, are

used in the prevention and treatment of diseases. Concepts related to drugs include

the following:



Route of administration: ways in which drugs can be given (usually via the mouth or

via an injection)



Generic name: nonproprietary name of the drug (for example, ibuprofen)



Trade name: company name, otherwise known as the brand name (for example,

Motrin)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

PLURALS

The plural form of many medical terms follows the rules used in common language.

Word endings Singular form Plural Form

Consonants other than s, h,

or y

contusion contusions

s, ch, sh virus viruses

y allergy allergies

General Guidelines in Forming Plurals of Nouns with Special Endings

Singular

Ending

Plural Ending Examples (Singular) Examples (Plural)

is es diagnosis, anastomosis diagnoses,

anastomoses

*Some words ending in is take on their plural form by omitting the is and adding ides, as in

arthritis and arthritides

um a atrium, ostium atria, ostia

us i bronchus, alveolus bronchi, alveoli

*Some words ending in us take on their plural form by omitting the us and adding era or ora, as

in viscus to viscera and corpus to corpora.

a ae cava, vertebra cavae, vertebrae

ix ices appendix, cervix appendices, cervices

ex ices apex apices

ax aces thorax thoraces

ma s or mata condyloma condylomas or condylomata

on a spermatozoon spermatozoa

*Some words ending in on take on their plural form by adding s, as in chorion to chorions

nx nges phalanx phalanges

After you’ve carefully read Chapter 1 in your textbook, complete Self-Check 1.1. When

you completely understand the material from Section 1.1, move on to Section 1.2.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

Self-Check 1.1

At the end of each section of Quick and Easy Medical Terminology, 8th

Edition, you’ll be asked to pause and check your understanding of what

you’ve just read by completing a self-check. Writing the answers to these

questions will help you review what you have learned so far. Please com-

plete Self-Check 1.1 now.

Complete Practice Exercises A–H at the end of Chapter 1 of your textbook.

Check your answers with those in Appendix III of your textbook.

SECTION 1.2: SUFFIXES AND

COMBINING FORMS MADE EASY

Read the following section, then read Chapter 2 in your textbook.

Objective

Whenyoucompletethissection,you’llbeabletoutilizesufxestobuildmedical

terminologies related to surgical procedures, medical conditions, specialists, and

specialties.

MEDICAL SPECIALISTS AND THEIR

SPECIALTIES

Identifying medical specialists and their specialties is made easy by recognizing the

meaningsofthesufxesattachedtothewordroot.Forexample,thesufx-logy refers to

the“studyorscienceof.”Anesthesiologyisthebranchofmedicalsciencethatspecically

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

dealswiththestudyofanesthesiaoranesthetics.Ontheotherhand,thesufx-logist

means“onewhostudies”or“specialist.”Ananesthesiologist is a physician who special-

izes in anesthesia. It’s important not to confuse anesthesiologist with anesthetist. The

sufx-istmeans“onewho”;hence,ananesthetist is one who administers anesthesia. An

anesthetist can be a physician or a nurse, while an anesthesiologist is a medical doctor

orphysician.Studythefollowingsufxesandtheirmeanings.

SUFFIXES: MEDICAL SPECIALISTS AND THEIR SPECIALTIES

Medical Specialists Medical Specialties

Sufx Meaning Example Sufx Meaning Example

-er, -ist one who internist -ac, -al, -ic,

ical

pertaining to obstetrical

-iatrician practitioner pediatrician -logic, -logical pertaining to the

study of

psychological

-logist one who stud-

ies, specialist

pulmonologist -iatrics, -iatry medical profes-

sion or treatment

pediatrics

-logy study or science

gynecology

The following table lists some of the most common combining forms associated with

medical specialties and specialists.

Combining Form Meaning Medical Specialty Medical Specialist

cardi/o heart cardiology cardiologist

dermat/o skin dermatology dermatologist

esthesi/o feeling or sensation anesthesiology anesthesiologist

gynec/o female gynecology gynecologist

immune/o immune immunology immunologist

ne/o, nat/o new, birth neonatology neonatologist

ophthalm/o eye ophthalmology ophthalmologist

path/o disease pathology pathologist

radi/o radiation or radius radiology radiologist

ur/o urinary tract or urine urology urologist

SURGICAL PROCEDURES

Asignicantnumberofmedicaltermsrefertosurgicalprocedures.Generally,thesuf-

xesusedwillgiveyouanideaaboutthetypeofsurgeryorprocedureperformed.For

instance,thesufx-ectomy means surgical removal. Polypectomy and adrenalectomy

refer to the excision or removal of polyps and adrenal glands, respectively. Knowing a

familiarwordrelatedtothesufxmakesiteasiertoanalyzeamedicalterm.Thisprocess

is known as word association. Take a look at the following table.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

SUFFIXES: SURGICAL PROCEDURES

Sufx Meaning Word Association

-centesis surgical puncture to aspirate or

removeuid

Paracentesis is a puncture of the perito-

nealcavitytoremoveuidfordiagnostic

or therapeutic purposes.

-ectomy excision (surgical removal or

cutting out)

Excision of the appendix is referred to

as an appendectomy.

-lysis process of loosening, freeing, or

destroying

Thissufxcanalsomeandissolvingor

destruction, as in hydrolysis.

-pexy surgicalxation(securingina

xedposition)

Nephropexyisasurgicalxationofa

kidney that descends when the patient

stands up.

-plasty surgical repair Rhinoplasty is a plastic surgery of the

nose and is done for several reasons.

-rrhaphy suture (fusing a wound by

stitches)

Herniorraphy is surgical repair of the

hernia with suture of the abdominal wall.

-scopy visual examination with the use

of a lighted instrument

Colonoscopy is a means of visualizing

thecolonwiththeuseofaber-optic

instrument.

-stomy creation of an opening Colostomy is a surgical procedure that

creates an opening for the colon or large

intestine through the abdomen.

-tome an instrument used for cutting A microtome is used to cut thin sections

of tissue.

-tomy incision (cutting into tissue) Sternotomy is an incision of the sternum

usually performed during heart surgery.

-tripsy surgical crushing, breaking, or

pulverizing

Lithotripsy is the surgical crushing of a

renal calculus or stone.

BODY STRUCTURES

Some of the combining forms for body structures have already been introduced when

naming medical specialists. In this section, you’ll be presented with additional combining

forms and the most frequent word associations used. Hepat/o is one of the most common

combiningformsusedinthemedicaleld.Notethathepat/o means liver; hence, hepa-

titis referstoaninammatoryconditionoftheliver.Moreexamplesarepresentedinthe

following table.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

COMBINING FORMS FOR A NUMBER OF BODY STRUCTURES

Combining Form Meaning Word Association

aden/o gland Adenopathy refers to the enlargement of

the glands.

angi/o vessel Angioplasty is a procedure used to rees-

tablishbloodowthroughpartiallyor

fully blocked blood vessels.

bi/o life or living Biopsy is a procedure used to extract

cells or tissues for examination.

blephar/o eyelid Blepharitis is an infection of the eyelids.

cerebr/o, encephal/o brain Cerebrospinal uidisaclear,colorless

uidfoundinthebrainandthespinal

cord.

Encephalopathy is a general term that

refers to a disorder or disease of the

brain.

col/o colon or large intestine Colitisisaninammationofthecolon’s

inner lining.

faci/o face Facial relates to the face.

hepat/o liver Hepatomegaly is enlargement of the

liver.

mamm/o, mast/o breast Mammogram is an x-ray of the breast.

Mastitis is an infection of the breast

tissue.

muscul/o, my/o muscle The musculoskeletal system is an organ

system responsible for movement and

activity.

Myosin is one of the muscle proteins.

myel/o bone marrow or spinal

cord

Myelogram is a means of examining the

spinal canal using a combination of dye

and x-ray.

oste/o bone Osteoporosis is a disease that weakens

the bones, thereby increasing the risk for

fractures.

pulm/o, pulmon/o,

pneum/o, pneumon/o

lungs Pulmonary refers to the lungs.

Pneumatic refers to gas or air.

Pneumothorax is the accumulation of air

or gas in the chest.

tonsil/o tonsil Tonsillectomy is the surgical removal of

the tonsils.

trache/o trachea (windpipe) Tracheitisisaninammationofthe

trachea.

vas/o vessel Widening of the blood vessels is known

as vasodilation.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

SYMPTOMS OR DIAGNOSIS

Symptomanddiagnosisarecommontermsusedinthemedicaleld.Asymptom indi-

cates a disorder or disease in which changes in health status are perceived by the client.

Forinstance,aclientsays:“Mystomachhurts.”Diagnosis, on the other hand, is the

scienticdeterminationofadiseaseprocessorconditionafterevaluation.“Pepticulcer

disease”isanexampleofamedicaldiagnosis.

SUFFIXES: SYMPTOMS OR DIAGNOSIS

Sufx Meaning Word Association

-algia, -dynia pain Arthralgia is joint pain. Vulvodynia is a

chronic pain condition affecting a wom-

an’s external genitalia.

-cele hernia (results when organ

pushes through the organ

or muscle that contains it)

Omphalocele is an abdominal wall defect

in which the abdominal organs protrude

through an opening at the base of the

umbilical cord.

-ectasia, -ectasis dilatation Telangiectasia is the dilation of the super-

cialbloodvessels.

Lymphangiectasis is the dilation of the

lymphatic vessels.

-edema swelling Edema denotes the presence of excess

uidinthetissues,causingswelling.

Angioedema involves the precipitous

swelling of the tissues under the skin,

usually due to an allergic reaction.

-emesis vomiting Emesis denotes vomiting.

Hyperemesis means excessive vomiting.

-emia condition of the blood Anemia refers to a decrease in red blood

cells or hemoglobin in the blood.

-ia, -iasis condition Hysteria is a mental disorder attributed to

women in the nineteenth century.

Filariasis is a parasitic disease caused by

microscopic worms.

-itis inammation Inammationofthevoiceboxorlarynxis

known as laryngitis.

-ith stone or calculus Fecalith is a hard mass consisting of

feces.

-malacia soft, softening Chondromalacia patella is the softening

of the cartilage underneath the knee.

-mania excessive preoccupation Pyromania is a compulsion to set things

onre.

-megaly enlargement Cardiomegaly is the enlargement of the

heart.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

SUFFIXES: SYMPTOMS OR DIAGNOSIS (continued)

Sufx Meaning Word Association

-oid resembling Mucoid means similar to mucus.

-oma tumor Lymphoma refers to a group of blood

cancers originating from the lymphatic

system.

-osis condition (usually an abnor-

mal condition, occasionally

refers to an increase)

Psychosis is a group of disorders affect-

ing the mind.

-pathy disease Cardiomyopathy is a group of diseases

affecting the cardiac muscle.

-penia deciency Neutropenia refers to abnormally low lev-

els of neutrophils, a type of white blood

cell.

-phobia abnormal fear Phobia refers to extremely strong fear

or dislike of something. Fear of being in

an enclosed space or area is known as

claustrophobia.

-ptosis prolapse (sagging) Drooping eyelids is ptosis.

-rrhage, -rrhagia excessive bleeding Hemorrhage means bleeding, which can

be external or internal.

-rrhea owordischarge Amenorrhea is the absence of menstrual

ow.

-rrhexis rupture Rupture of the bowels is referred to as

enterorrhexis.

-spasm cramp, twitching Vasospasm is the spasm of the blood

vessels.

-stasis stopping, controlling Hemostasis is the normal bodily

response to stop bleeding or

hemorrhaging.

MISCELLANEOUS SUFFIXES

Asidefromthesufxescategorizedearlier,thereareothervarioussufxesthatare

widely utilized by healthcare professionals. As you go further into the course, you

shouldbecomemorefamiliarwiththesesufxes.Thefollowingisalistofselect

miscellaneoussufxes.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

MISCELLANEOUS SUFFIXES

Sufx Meaning Examples

-able, -ible capable of, able to injectable, edible

-ac, -al, -an, -ar, -ary,

-eal, -ic, -ive, -tic

pertaining to iliac, dermal, median, ulnar, capil-

lary, meningeal, hepatic, invasive,

cyanotic

-ase enzyme lipase, amylase

-eum, -ium membrane peritoneum, myocardium

-ia, -ism condition or theory paranoia,dwarsm

-iac one who suffers hemophiliac

-opia vision hyperopia

-ose sugar fructose

-ous pertaining to or character-

ized by

cancerous

-y state or condition atrophy

MISCELLANEOUS WORD PARTS

Thesewordpartsaren’tcategorizedunderaspecicgroup,butnotethatthey’refre-

quently used in medical terminologies. The word microscope (word part= micro), for

example, is used not only by healthcare professionals but in customary language as well.

MISCELLANEOUS WORD PARTS

Word Part Meaning Word Association

adip/o, lip/o fat adipose, hyperlipidemia

amyl/o starch amylase

glyc/o sugar hyperglycemia

hemat/o blood hematology

lact/o milk lactation

litho/o stone lithotripsy

micro- small microscopy

muc/o mucus mucous

prote/o, protein/o protein proteolysis, proteinuria

pyr/o re pyromania

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

Self-Check 1.2

Complete Practice Exercises A–H in Chapter 2 of your textbook, then

answer questions below.

Choose the correct answer.

 1. Thepresenceofabnormallylargeamountsofuidinthetissuesthatresultsin

swelling is called

a. dilatation. c. emesis.

b. edema. d. ptosis.

2. Surgical repair of the eye is

a. ophthalmalgia. c. ophthalmoplasty.

b. ophthalmological. d. ophthalmorrhagia.

 3. Herniationofthebrainthroughanopeningintheskulliscalled

a. craniectomy. c. encephalocele.

b. craniotomy. d. encephalopathy.

4. Which of the following terms means dilation of a blood or lymph vessel?

a. Angioplasty c. Vascular

b. Vasotomy d. Angiectasis

5. The medical specialty that studies the nature and cause of disease is

a. cardiology. c. pathology.

b. dermatology. d. urology.

6. A term that means excessive vomiting is

a. edema. c. hypoglycemia.

b. hyperemesis. d. hysteria.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

Self-Check 1.2

7. A term that means pertaining to the eye is

a. adenic. c. otic.

b. ophthalmic. d. vascular.

8. Excision of a gland is called

a. adenectomy. c. neurectomy.

b. appendectomy. d. tonsillectomy.

9. Dermatoplasty is

a. any disease of the skin.

b. pertaining to the skin.

c. skin grafting.

d. the science that studies the skin.

10. An instrument for incising brain tissue is a/an

a. cerebrotomy. c. encephalotome.

b. cerebrectomy. d. encephalocele.

11. A 78-year-old man who had a blood vessel removed during surgery is likely to

have which term documented in his chart?

a. Angiectomy c. Angiotomy

b. Angiogram d. Angioscopy

12. During a physical examination, a physician can visualize the eardrum using a tool

called an

a. ophthalmoplasty. c. otoplasty.

b. ophthalmoscope. d. otoscope.

Check your answers to the Practice Exercises with those on Appendix III of your

textbook. Check your answers to questions 1–12 with those at the end of this

study guide.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

SECTION 1.3: ESSENTIAL PREFIXES

AND MORE

Read the following section, then read Chapter 3 in your textbook.

Objectives

Whenyoucompletethissection,you’llbeabletoidentifyanduseprexesinwriting

medical terms.

NUMBERS AND QUANTITIES

Themedicaleld,likeanyothergroupofprofessions,makesuseoftermsrelatedto

numbersandquantities.Theprexesusedinthesemedicaltermsarethesameones

weuseineverydaylanguage.Forexample,theprexbi-isaprexwhichmeanstwo.

Examplesofwordsassociatedwiththisprexincludebicycle (a vehicle with two wheels)

and biannual (an event occurring twice a year). Theprexbi- has the same meaning

when used in medical language. Bicuspid means two cusps or valves, as in the case of

heart valves. Study the following table for more examples.

PREFIXES: NUMBERS AND QUANTITIES

NUMBERS

Prex Meaning Example Word Association

mono-, uni- one mononuclear,

unilateral

Mononuclear refers to a cell

made up of one nucleus.

Unilateral means one side.

bi-, di- two bicuspid,

disaccharide

Bicuspid means having two

cusps, as in the bicuspid

valves of the heart.

A disaccharide is a type of car-

bohydrate that is made up of

two simple sugars.

tri- three tricuspid Tricuspid means having three

cusps, as in the tricuspid valve

of the heart.

quad-, quadri-,

tetra-

four quadriplegia The paralysis of all four

extremities is known as

quadriplegia.

centi- one hundred,

one-hundredth

centigrade The centigrade or Celsius

scale is a unit of measure-

ment for temperature, which is

divided into 100 degrees.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

PREFIXES: NUMBERS AND QUANTITIES (continued)

NUMBERS

Prex Meaning Example Word Association

milli- one-thousandth milliunit A milliunit is 1/1000 of a unit.

QUANTITIES

diplo- double diplopia Diplopia means double vision

or the perception of two

images of a single object.

hemi-, semi- half, partly hemiparesis,

semi-fowler’s

Hemiparesis refers to weak-

ness of one entire side of the

body.

Semi-fowler’s position is a

position assumed when a cli-

ent is supine on a bed with the

head of the bed elevated at

about 30–45 degrees.

hyper- excessive, more

than normal

hyperglycemia Hyperglycemia is excessive

blood sugar.

hypo- under, less than

normal

hypoglycemia Decreased blood sugar

in the blood is known as

hypoglycemia.

multi-, poly- many multigravid,

polyuria

Multigravid means multiple

pregnancies.

Polyuria means excessive pro-

duction or passage of urine.

nulli- none nulliparous A woman who hasn’t

given birth is referred to as

nulliparous.

pan- all pancytopenia Pancytopenia occurs when all

blood cell types are decreased.

primi- rst primigravida Primigravida refers to a woman

beingpregnantfortherst

time.

super-, ultra- excessive,

above or

superior

superior,

supraspinatus,

ultraviolet

Superior vena cava is a

large-diameter blood vessel

that drains blood from the

upper parts of the body.

Ultraviolet light is a form of

radiation.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

POSITION OR DIRECTION

Knowledgeoftheprexesusedinidentifyingpositionsordirectionsisessentialinunder-

standing medical terminologies. You might have heard the word postoperative. This term

referstotheperiodfollowingsurgery.Notethattheprexpost- means after. Inversely,

pre- denotes before. Thus, the term preoperative refers to the period prior to surgery.

Morepositionalordirectionalsufxesareoutlinedinthefollowingtable.

PREFIXES: POSITION OR DIRECTION

Prex Meaning Word Association

ab- away from Abduction is movement of a body part

away from the midline.

ad- toward Adduction is movement of a body part

toward the midline.

ante-, pre- before in time or in place Antepartum refers to the period before

childbirth.

Preoperative refers to the period

before surgery.

circum-, peri- around The circular movement of a body part

is known as circumduction.

Periorbital edema is swelling around

the eyes.

contra- contralateral Contralateral pertains to the opposite

side.

dia- through Diaphoresis is the passage of moisture

through the pores of the skin.

ecto-, ex-, exo-, extra- outside, without, away

from

Ectoderm is the outermost primary

germ layer of the embryo.

Exocrine glands secrete substances

externally through a duct.

en-, end-, endo- inside Endolymph istheuidfoundwithinthe

membranous labyrinth of the ear.

epi- above, on The outermost layer of the sclera is

known as episclera.

hypo-, infr-, sub- beneath, under Hypodermis refers to the area below

the skin.

Infraclavicular pertains to the area

below the clavicle.

Subdural hematoma results from the

collection of blood beneath the skull.

inter- between Interphalangeal joints are formed

between the phalanges.

intra- within Intraosseous means within the bone.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

PREFIXES: POSITION OR DIRECTION (continued)

Prex Meaning Word Association

ipsi- same Ipsilateral pertains to the same side

meso-, mid- middle The middle tissue layer during embry-

onic development is the mesoderm.

para- near, beside, or

abnormal

Paralysis is the loss of motor function

in a body part.

per- through or by Percutaneous means through or via

the skin.

post- after, behind Postoperative means after surgery.

retro- behind, backward Retrograde means going back in posi-

tion or time.

super-, supra- above, beyond Supercial indicates being near or on

thesurface,asinsupercialveins.

Supraclavicular means above the

clavicle.

sym-, syn- joined, together The relationship between two dissimi-

lar organisms pertains to symbiosis.

Syndactyly is a condition where two or

more digits of the hands are fused.

trans- across Transference occurs when one’s feel-

ings are unconsciously redirected to

another.

MISCELLANEOUS PREFIXES

Miscellaneousprexesareeasytoremembersincemostofthemarebeingused

frequently, even in lay conversations. To promote organization of content, these miscella-

neousprexesarecategorizedintothefollowing:(1)relatedtodescription,(2)relatedto

time, (3) related to size, and (4) related to negation.

MISCELLANEOUS PREFIXES

Prex Meaning Word Association

Description

anti-, contra- against Antidiuretics are medications that

decrease or inhibit urination.

Contraception refers to methods or

devices that prevent pregnancy.

brady- slow Bradypnea means decreased respira-

tory rate.

dys- bad,difcult Difcultyswallowingisreferredtoas

dysphagia.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

MISCELLANEOUS PREFIXES (continued)

Prex Meaning Word Association

eu- good, normal Eupnea pertains to normal respirations.

mal- bad Malabsorption results from the inability

of the gastrointestinal tract to properly

absorb food nutrients.

pro- favoring, supporting Probiotics are live microorganisms that

arebelievedtobebenecialtoone’s

health.

tachy- fast Tachypnea refers to abnormally fast

respirations.

Time

ante-, pre-, pro- before Antemortem means before death.

Premature births refer to neonates being

born before 37 weeks of gestation.

post- after or behind Postpartum pertains to the period imme-

diately after birth.

Size

macro-, mega-,

megalo-

large or great Macrocephaly refers to a condition

where the head is abnormally large.

Megaloblasts are abnormally large red

blood cells.

Large blood cells in the bone marrow

are referred to as megakaryocytes.

micro- small Microcephaly is a condition where the

head is abnormally small.

Negation

a-, an- no, not, without Apathy pertains to lack of or absence of

emotion.

Analgesia refers to absence of sensibil-

ity to pain.

in- not or inside (in) Indifferent pertains to having no interest.

Intubate means putting a tube inside an

airway.

COMBINING FORMS FOR COLORS

Medical terms also utilize combining forms for colors. Unlike the combining forms

discussed in the earlier chapters, these forms are not generally used in everyday conver-

sations. Most of these forms are used in the health sciences. The following table lists the

most common combining forms for colors and their meanings.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

COMBINING FORMS FOR COLORS

Combining

Form Meaning Examples Word Association

alb/o, albin/o,

leuk/o (leuc/o)

white albinism,

leukocytosis

Albinism is a genetic disorder resulting

in minimal or absence of skin, hair, or

eye pigmentation.

An increase in the white blood cell count

is known as leukocytosis.

chlor/o green chlorophyll Chlorophyll is the green coloring matter

found in leaves and plants.

cyano/o blue cyanosis Lack of oxygen in the blood can cause

a bluish discoloration of the skin

and mucous membranes known as

cyanosis.

erythr/o red erythema Erythema refers to the redness of the

skin or mucous membrane.

melan/o black melanin Melanin is a dark brown or black sub-

stance that forms a natural part of a

person’s hair, skin, and eyes.

xanth/o yellow xanthophyll The yellow pigment in plants is

xanthophyll.

Xanthophobia is the fear of the color

yellow.

COMBINING FORMS AND RELATED

SUFFIXES

Somecombiningformsarecloselyassociatedwithsufxesthatarecommonlyusedto

writemedicalterms.Thesesufxescanbeusedtoformnounsandadjectives.Note

thatallthesufxesinthefollowinglistformnounsexceptforthoseendingin-ic and -tic,

which are used to form adjectives. For example, phagocytes (withthesufx-cyte) refer to

cells that ingest foreign matter. Phagocytic (withthesufx-tic), on the other hand, refers

to a cell capable of functioning as a phagocyte. More examples follow.

COMBINING FORMS AND RELATED SUFFIXES

Combining

Form Sufxes Meaning Examples

cyt/o -cyte cell karyocyte

gen/o

-genic

-genesis

beginning, origin

produced by or in

producing or forming

genetic

carcinogenic

spermatogenesis

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

COMBINING FORMS AND RELATED SUFFIXES (continued)

Combining

Form Sufxes Meaning Examples

gram/o

-gram

-graph

-graphy

to record

a record

instrument for recording

process of recording

echocardiogram

electrocardiograph

echocardiography

kinesi/o -kinesia

-kinesis

movement, motion bradykinesia

leps/o -lepsy seizure epilepsy

lys/o

-lysin

-lysis

-lytic

destruction, dissolving

that which destroys

process of destroying

capable of or producing

destruction

lysozyme

cytolysin

hemolysis

hemolytic

malac/o

-malacia

soft, softening

abnormal softening osteomalacia

megalo/o -megalo large, enlarged,

enlargement

megaloblasts

metr/o

-meter

-metry

measure, uterine, tissue

instrument used to

measure

process of measuring

endometrium

goniometer

densitometry

path/o -pathy disease coagulopathy

phag/o

-phagia,

-phagic, -phagy

eat, ingest

eating, swallowing

phagocytosis

dysphagia

phas/o -phasia speech aphasia

pleg/o -plegia paralysis hemiplegia

schis/o, schiz/o,

schist/o

-schisis split, cleft schizophrenia

scler/o

-sclerosis

hard

hardening

scleroderma

atherosclerosis

scop/o

-scope

-scopy

to examine, to view

instrument used for

viewing

process of examining

visually

microscope

bronchoscopy

troph/o -trophic, -trophy nutrition hypertrophy

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

MISCELLANEOUS COMBINING FORMS

Miscellaneouscombiningformsarenamedassuchbecausetheycan’tbeclassied

underaspeciccategory,butarefrequentlyused.Combiningformssuchastherm/o

(in thermometer) and carcin/o (in carcinogenic) are usual examples. Study the following

combining forms and their word associations.

MISCELLANEOUS COMBINING FORMS

Combining Form Meaning Word Association

aer/o air Aerobic microorganisms are those that need oxy-

gen in order to survive.

blast/o embryonic form Erythroblasts are immature red blood cells.

cancer/o, carcin/o cancer Carcinogenic means any substance or agent that

can cause cancer.

cephal/o head Cephalohematoma is the collection of blood

under the skull.

cry/o cold Cryosurgery utilizes extreme cold temperature to

destroy or remove diseased tissue.

crypto/o hidden Undescendedor“hidden”testisisreferredtoas

cryptorchidism.

dips/o thirst Excessive thirst is polydipsia.

electr/o electricity Electrocardiography is a test that detects prob-

lems with the electrical activity of the heart.

br/o ber Fibrous pertains to anything that contains,

resembles,orconsistsofber.

hist/o tissue Histology is the study of the microanatomy of

cells and tissues of plants and animals.

myc/o fungus The branch of botany that focuses on the study

of fungi is mycology.

narc/o stupor Narcotics may cause stupor or insensibility.

necr/o dead Necropsy or autopsy is the examination of a per-

son who has died.

optic/o, opt/o vision The optic nerve carries electrical impulses from

the eye to the brain.

Optometry is concerned with the diagnosis, treat-

ment, and prevention of eye and vision problems.

phon/o voice Bronchophony refers to the normal voice sounds

heard over the bronchus.

phot/o light Phototherapy or light therapy pertains to treat-

ment using a special kind of light.

py/o pus Pyogenesis refers to pus formation.

therm/o heat Thermometer is an instrument used to measure

temperature.

top/o position, place A topical medication is applied to the skin.

trache/o trachea A tracheostomy is a surgical procedure that

creates an opening in the trachea (windpipe) to

facilitate breathing.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

Self-Check 1.3

Complete Practice Exercises A–G found in Chapter 3 of your textbook, then

answer questions below.

Choose the correct answer.

1. Which of the following terms contains a word part that means yellow?

a. Chloropia c. Melancholy

b. Cyanotic d. Xanthosis

 2. Painfulordifcultmovementis

a. bradykinesia. c. kinesiotherapy.

b. dyskinesia. d. yachykinesia.

3. Cephalometry is

a. a headache.

b. an instrument used to measure the head.

c. measurement of the head.

d. study of the head.

4. A lipoma is

a. the breakdown of lipids in digestion.

b. a benign tumor composed of fatty tissue.

c. surgical crushing of a stone.

d. an ectopic pregnancy.

5. Aphonia is

a. absence of speech. c. rapid speech.

 b. difcultspeech. d. absenceorlossofvoice.

6. A term that means pertaining to the skin is

a. cryotherapy. c. dermal.

b. cyanosis. d. dysphagia.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1

Self-Check 1.3

7. Cryptorchidism means

a. tissue compatibility. c. within a vein.

b. undescended testicle. d. without water.

8. A record or tracing of the electrical impulses of the heart is called an

a. electrocardiograph. c. electrocardiography.

b. electrocardiogram. d. electrocardiopathy.

9. A term for a large cell, usually restricted to mean an extremely large red blood

cell, is

a. erythrocyte. c. microcyte.

b. megalocyte. d. phagocyte.

10. Apatientwhohasastrokeusuallydisplaysdecitsontheothersideofthebody.

For instance, a patient with a right-side stroke has left hemiparesis. Which term

best describes the location of the weakness in relation to the area of the stroke?

a. Bilateral c. Ipsilateral

b. Contralateral d. Unilateral

11. A woman who has just given birth is considered to be

a. antepartum. c. primigravida.

b. postpartum. d. multigravida.

12. A 54-year-old woman had _______ to check for seizure activity in her brain.

a. electrocardiography c. echoencephalography

b. electroencephalography d. computed tomography

Check your answers to the Practice Exercises with those in Appendix III of your

textbook. Check your answers to questions 1–12 with those at the end of this

study guide.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 2

LESSON 2: DIAGNOSIS,

INTERVENTION, AND HUMAN

BODY TERMS

INTRODUCTION

By this time, you’re already accustomed to the basic components of medical word-build-

ing as presented in Chapters 1–3 of your textbook. Now, you’ll begin to learn about

diagnoses, interventions, and body structures. In Chapters 4 and 5 of your textbook,

you’ll study diagnostic procedures, therapeutic interventions, and anatomy and physiol-

ogy of the human body.

SECTION 2.1: DIAGNOSES AND

INTERVENTIONS

Read the following section, then read Chapter 4 in your textbook.

Objectives

When you complete this section, you’ll be able to match diagnostic terms and thera-

peutic interventions with their meanings.

To better understand medical terms related to diagnoses and interventions, you need to

familiarizeyourselfwiththedenitionsofthefollowingterms:



Normal range: acceptable limit



Pathologic: pertains to a condition involving a disease process



Diagnosis:namingadiseaseorconditionbasedonscienticevaluation



Prognosis: anticipated outcome of a disease

Before studying concepts related to pathology, you need to recognize the functions that

occur when the body is in a healthy state. To evaluate if bodily functions are normal,

several tests are usually performed. These tests may include clinical studies, laboratory

tests, and radiologic (radio + logic) studies. Apart from these tests, the healthcare prac-

titioner also needs to check for signs and symptoms of a disease. Signs are observable

characteristics that have been gathered through the use of the senses. For instance,

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 2

when the examiner auscultates (listens)forbreathsounds,andhearsthatthelungelds

areclear,itisdocumentedas“clearbreathsounds.”Ontheotherhand,symptomsare

subjectivedata.Thesearestatementsmadebytheclientorsignicantothersbasedon

their perception. A “severe throbbing headache” is an example of a symptom. The results

of these studies help establish a diagnosis. When a client is diagnosed with a disease,

it’softenclassiedaseitheracute (occurs over a short duration) or chronic (exists over

an extended period of time).

BASIC EXAMINATION PROCEDURES

When a healthcare practitioner checks for signs of a disease, they usually perform two

basic functions: (1) measuring vital signs and (2) performing a physical examination.

Vital Signs

Vital signs are clinical measurements that indicate the state of a client’s life-sustaining

functions. There are three to six signs being measured, depending on the institution’s

protocol. The basic ones are pulse, respiration, and temperature. Some facilities include

blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and pain.

Vital Sign Points To Remember

Pulse



may be abbreviated as P



refers to recurrent expansion of an artery referred to as

heart beats



pulse rate (PR) is the number of heart beats per minute

Respiration



may be abbreviated as R



denotes the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the

body



otherwise known as ventilation or breathing



measured by counting the rise and fall of the chest during

breathing

Temperature



denedasthebalancebetweenheatlostandheat

produced by the body



thermometer



therm/o = heat



-meter = instrument used to measure



different routes of measurement: oral, axilla, rectal,

tympanic



measured in Centigrade and Fahrenheit

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 2

Vital Sign Points To Remember

Blood pressure



refers to the pressure of the circulating blood on the blood

vessel walls



millimetersofmmHg(mercury)isthestandardunitof

measure



expressed as fraction:



systolic: maximum arterial pressure (contraction)



diastolic: pressure during relaxation

Oxygen saturation



refers to the measure of the concentration of oxygen



measured using a pulse oximeter

Pain



an unpleasant feeling caused by intense or damaging

stimuli

Four Techniques in Physical Examination

Physical examination is a means of gathering clinical data from the client using the exam-

iner’s senses, namely the senses of sight, hearing, and touch.

Technique Sense Involved Skill Example

Inspection sight Eyes are used to

observe.

Checking for skin color

Palpation touch Handsareusedtofeel

for the texture, size, con-

sistency, and location of

body parts.

Feeling for lumps

Percussion hearing Thestorngertipsare

used to tap the body part

to determine the size,

borders, and consistency

of body organs.

Performing“kidney

punch”

Auscultation hearing A stethoscope is used to

listen for sounds within

the body.

Listening for breath

sounds

COMMON DIAGNOSTIC TESTS AND

PROCEDURES

In Lesson 1, you’ve been introduced to the word parts commonly used in diagnostic tests

and procedures. Review the following word parts and their meanings:

Word Part Meaning Example

-gram a record echocardiogram

-graph instrument for recording radiograph

-graphy process of recording radiography

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 2

Word Part Meaning Example

-meter instrument used to measure thermometer

-metry process of measuring optometry

-scope instrument used in visual examination endoscope

-scopy visual examination with a lighted

instrument

endoscopy

Endoscopy (endo = inside + scopy = visual examination using a lighted instrument) is

one of the most common visualization procedures used in healthcare. It makes use of an

endoscope (endo + scope) to view the internal body cavities or organs.

Catheters and cannulas are instruments inserted into a body cavity. Both instruments are

hollowandexibleandhaveseveralpurposes,suchaswithdrawalandinstillationofu-

ids, or visualization of vessels or cavities.

Diagnostic Radiology

The domain of medicine related to the diagnosis of diseases with the use of x-rays, radio-

active substances, and radiant energy is known as radiology. The following table lists

word parts related to radiology.

Combining Form Meaning Example

ech/o, son/o sound echocardiogram, sonography

electr/o electricity electroconvulsive

uor/o emittingorreectinglight uoroscopy

radi/o radiant energy radiography

tom/o to cut tomography

ultra- (prex) excessive ultrasonography

Diagnostic imaging modalities include:

a. Radiography



useslmimagesofinternalstructures(commonlyreferredtoasx-ray)



radiopaque: substances that don’t allow x-rays to pass through



radiolucent: substances that allow the passage of x-rays

Computed tomography



ionizing radiation is used to produce a cross-section of a tissue



painless and noninvasive

c. Magnetic resonance imaging



radiowavepulsesandmagneticeldareusedtoproduceanotablesoft

tissue resolution, which differentiates adjoining structures

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 2

d. Ultrasonography



otherwise known as ultrasound imaging or sonography



makes use of high-frequency sound waves to produce images of deep body

structures

e. Fluoroscopy



uses a uoroscope to visually examine an internal organ



can produce continuous images of internal structures, even with movement

f. Contrast imaging



radiopaque materials are used to visualize internal structures on x-ray images



a contrast medium may be used to enhance visualization

g. Nuclear imaging



uses radiopharmaceuticals to form an image of an organ or system



radi/o = radiant energy + pharmaceut/i = drugs or medicine + al = pertaining to

Radiation and Other Therapeutic Interventions

As presented in the earlier part of this section, the use of radioactive materials and

x-raysisadvantageousindiseaseidentication.Apartfromthispurpose,radiationis

also useful in treating tumors or cancer cells. This method is known as radiotherapy

or radiation oncology. However,radiotherapynotonlydestroyscancercells,butitalso

leads to destruction of normal cells; hence, the client may present with side effects

such as hair loss, nausea and vomiting, bone marrow suppression, and drying of the

mucous membranes.

The word therapeutic pertains to therapy. The following table lists word parts related to

treatment.

Combining Form Meaning Example

algesi/o sensitivity to pain analgesic

chem/o chemical chemotherapy

pharmac/o,

pharmaceuti/i

drugs or medicine pharmacokinetics

plast/o repair neoplastic

therapeut/o treatment thermotherapy

tox/o poison toxicology

-therapy (sufx) treatment cryotherapy

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 2

Self-Check 2.1

Complete Practice Exercises 1–10 and A–G found in Chapter 4 of your text-

book, then answer questions 1–13 below.

Choose the correct answer.

1. The term that means the introduction of a catheter is

a. catheter. c. catheterize.

 b. catheterization. d. uoroscopy.

2. The procedure in which the image is digitized and immediately displayed on a

monitororrecordedonlmis

a. auscultation. c. endoscopy.

b. computed radiography. d. thermometry.

 3. Thetermfortappingthebodywiththengertipsorsttoevaluateinternalorgans

ortoevaluateuidinabodycavityis

a. auscultation. c. palpation.

b. inspection. d. percussion.

4. The number of breaths per minute is the

a. blood pressure. c. pulse.

b. heart rate. d. respiration rate.

5. On day 5, Dr. Norris removed the sutures that had resulted from a small cut on

Sean’s leg. The surgeon tells his mother that excellent healing had resulted, the

smallscarwillfadesignicantlywithtime,andthisshouldcausenoadditional

problems for Sean. What’s the name of the report that the surgeon is giving to

Sean’s mother?

a. Prognosis c. Specimen

b. Sign d. Symptom

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 2

Self-Check 2.1

6. Lisa visits her obstetrician, who uses a stethoscope to listen to the heart rate of

her 38-week developing fetus. The obstetrician’s action describes which of the

following techniques?

a. Auscultation c. Palpation

b. Inspection d. Percussion

 7. Aninstrumentconsistingoftwoearpiecesconnectedbyexibletubingthat’sused

to hear sounds within the body is a

 a. uoroscope. c. stethoscope.

b. sonograph. d. tomogram.

8. A commonly used term that means an x-ray image is

a. radiolucent. c. radiography.

b. radiograph. d. radiopaque.

9. Substances that readily permit the passage of x-rays are described as

a. radiolucent. c. radiography.

b. radiograph. d. radiopaque.

10. Aninstrumentthatprojectsanx-rayimageonascreenduringuoroscopyis

called a

 a. uoroscope. c. radiograph.

b. microscope. d. stethoscope.

11. A term that means pertaining to a procedure that uses an illuminated instrument

for the visualization of the interior of a body cavity or organ is

 a. endoscopic. c.uoroscopic.

 b. endoscope. d.uoroscope.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 2

Self-Check 2.1

12. While reviewing a chart, you note that the patient has had an ultrasound. Which of

the following terms best describes this type of testing?

 a. echography. c. uoroscopy.

b. endoscopy. d. radiography.

13. Apatientwithhypertensionhashisbloodpressurecheckedatthedoctor’sofce.

The reading was 210/90. The number 210 is referred to as the

a. diastolic pressure. c. respiratory rate.

b. pulse. d. systolic pressure.

Check your answers to the Practice Exercises with those in Appendix III of your

textbook. Check your answers to questions 1–13 with those at the end of this

study guide.

SECTION 2.2: THE BODY AS A WHOLE

Read the following section, then read Chapter 5 in your textbook.

Objectives

When you complete this section, you’ll be able to build and identify medical terms

related to body structures.

ORGANIZATION OF THE BODY

The human body is made up of structures that come together to make up a whole. These

structures start from the smallest unit, which is an atom, to the largest, most complex unit,

the human organism. The body is made up of many levels of structural organization: cells

make up tissues, tissues form organs, organs form body systems, and the body systems

make up an organism. Organism refers to an individual being with life.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 2

The basic unit of life is the cell. Cells divide until they mature. Some cells can divide with-

out limit. These are referred to as stem cells. These specialized cells are ample in a fetus

and in newborn cord blood. Cytology refers to the study of the formation, structure, and

function of cells.

Agroupofsimilarcellsthatworktogetherandperformaspecicfunctionformsthe

next level of organization, tissues. Histology is the study of the microscopic structure of

tissues. There are four types of tissues according to function: connective, epithelial, mus-

cular, and nervous.

Organs are formed when two or more tissue types work together to accomplish a particu-

lar function. The heart, lungs, and skin are examples of organs.

A set of organs that have a collective function make up a body system. Body systems will

be discussed in detail in the later sections. The major body systems are listed as follows:



Muscular system



Skeletal system



Cardiovascular system



Lymphatic system



Respiratory system



Digestive system



Urinary system



Reproductive system



Integumentary system



Nervous system



Endocrine system

The organism or the human body is the largest and the most complex level in the organi-

zational structure. It’s composed of different body systems.

Thereareinstanceswhentissuesororgansareabnormallyformed.Theprexana- and

sufx-plasia are commonly used to describe these abnormalities. Ana- means upward,

excessive, or again, while -plasia refers to development or formation of tissue. The follow-

ing word parts are frequently used to describe abnormal tissue development.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 2

Word Part Meaning Example

a- without Aplasia denotes underdeveloped

organ or tissue.

-plasia formation Dysplasia refers to abnormal

development of tissues.

dys- bad

hypo- below normal The underdevelopment of organ

or tissue is known as hypoplasia

(a less severe form of aplasia).

hyper- above normal An increase in the number of

cells is known as hyperplasia.

-trophy nutrition An increase in the size of cells is

referred to as hypertrophy.

REFERENCE PLANES

Directional terms and planes are used to depict the position and direction of different

body structures relative to the anatomic position. Theanatomicalpositionisdenedas

the body standing erect, eyes directed forward, hands at the side, palms turned outward,

and lower limbs parallel with the toes pointing forward.

Directional Terms

Directional terms denote the position of a structure in relation to another structure. In

Chapter5ofyourtextbook,you’llndalistofdirectionalterms.Hereareadditionalterms

relating to direction:



Abduction: movement of body parts away from the midline



Adduction: movement of body parts toward the midline



Inversion: turning inward



Eversion: turning outward



Palmar: pertains to the palm of the hand



Plantar: pertains to the sole of the foot



Supination: turning upward



Pronation: turning downward

Planes

The orientation of the body can be described using terms such as plane and aspect.

Referenceplanesareimaginaryatsurfacesthatdividethebodyintoportionsorsides.

The three reference planes are:

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 2



Frontal/coronal plane: splits the body into front and back portions



Transverse plane: splits the body into upper and lower portions



Sagittal plane: splits the body into right and left sides

These planes form aspects used to identify locations:



Anterior (front)



Posterior (behind)



Lateral (side)



Medial (middle)



Superior (uppermost)



Inferior (lowermost)

BODY CAVITIES

The hollow place or space within the body that houses internal organs is known as a

cavity. The two major body cavities are the dorsal (located near the posterior part of the

body) and ventral (located near the anterior part of the body) cavities. The dorsal cavity is

subdivided into the cranial and spinal cavities, while the ventral cavity is subdivided into

the thoracic and abdominopelvic cavities.

Seethefollowinggure:

BODY CAVITY

• Spinal cord

• Some spinal

nerves

DORSAL

VENTRAL

CRANIAL

SPINAL

• Brain

THORACIC

ABDOMINOPELVIC

• Lungs

• Heart

• Trachea

• Stomach

• Liver

• Pancreas

• Gallbladder

• Spleen

• Kidneys

• Male/Female

reproductive

organs

FIGURE 1—Body Cavities

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 2

BODY REGIONS

The body is divided into four major regions: head, neck, torso, and extremities. The list

belowidentiestheregionsandtheorganscontainedineachpart.



Head:brainandthespecialsenseorgans



Neck



Torso: chest, abdomen, pelvis



Extremities



upper:arms,wrists,hands,ngers



lower: thighs, knees, legs, ankles, feet, toes

BODY FLUIDS

Approximately60%ofanaverageadult’sweightisuids.Fluidsareneededbythebody

fortransportofnutrientsandremovalofwastes.Thetwoprimarybodyuidsareblood

andlymph.Mostbodyuidisintracellular (found within the cell), but some is extracellu-

lar (outsidethecell).Thetwotypesofextracellularuidareinterstitial uid(uidfound

between the cells of the body) and plasma(uidpartoftheblood).Thefollowingtable

providesalistoffrequentlyusedwordpartspertainingtobodyuids.

Combining Form/

Word Part Meaning Word Association

-crine secrete endocrine

lacrim/o tear, tearing, crying lacrimation

-emia condition of the blood anemia

hem/o blood hemoglobin

lymph/o lymph lymphatic

muc/o mucus mucolytic

-poiesis production erythropoiesis

-poietin substance that causes production erythropoietin

py/o pus pyorrhea

sial/o saliva sialography

ur/o urine urinary

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 2

BLOOD

Blood carries oxygen, nutrients, vitamins, antibodies, and other substances to different

parts of the body. It also helps carry carbon dioxide and other wastes away. Select word

parts pertaining to blood are found in the following table:

Combining Form Meaning Word Association

coagul/o coagulation coagulopathy

cyt/o cell cytology

erythr/o red erythrocyte

hem/a, hemat/o blood hematology

immun/o immune immunization

leuk/o white leukocyte

thromb/o clot (thrombus) thrombocyte

Sufx

-cyte cell cytology

-osis increased or abnormal leukocytosis

-penia deciency leukopenia

-poiesis production hematopoiesis

BODY DEFENSES AND IMMUNITY

Susceptibility and resistance are two essential terms related to body defenses.

Vulnerability to a disease or disorder is known as susceptibility, while resistance refers

tothebody’snaturalabilitytoghtmicroorganismsortoxins.Thebodyhastwodefense

mechanisms, nonspecic resistance and specic (selective) resistance, otherwise known

as immunity.

Nonspecicresistanceisthebody’srstlineofdefenseandisdirectedagainstallpatho-

gens. Several body systems are involved in protecting the body. Immunity, on the other

hand,worksagainstinfectiousmicroorganismsandcanbeclassiedintofourcategories.

See the following diagram:

BODY DEFENSES

Nonspecic Defenses Specic Defenses (Immunity)



Intact skin



Tearing of the eyes



Urinary system



Mucous membranes



Digestive system



Respiratory system



Lymphatic system

Natural Articial



Active (contracting a

disease)



Passive (maternal

antibodies)



Active (antigens)



Passive (antibodies)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 2

PATHOGENS

Any microorganism capable of producing a disease is known as a pathogen. Generally,

there are four types of pathogenic (the ability to produce disease) microorganisms:



Virus



Bacteria



Fungi



Protozoa

Acts of terrorism have been a growing concern worldwide. Terrorists make use of various

forms of weapons of mass destruction (WMD). The following categories have been identi-

edbyseveralgovernmentagencies:

B Biological

N Nuclear

I Incendiary

C Chemical

E Explosive

Using pathogenic biological agents to cause panic, fear, and terror in a population is bio-

terrorism. Microorganisms are used as weapons of mass destruction because they can

easily be transmitted, have high chances of causing death, may lead to panic, and lastly,

would require extraordinary attention.

Self-Check 2.2

Complete Practice Exercises 1–25 and A–H found in Chapter 5 of your text-

book, then answer questions 1–11.

Choose the correct answer.

 1. Whichtermmeansinammationofthetearsac?

a. Dacryolithiasis c. Dacryocystitis

b. Dacryocyst d. Lacrimitis

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 2

Self-Check 2.2

2. Which of the following statements is true of endocrine glands?

a. They carry their secretions to an external surface.

 b. They’reclassiedbythepresenceofducts.

c. They’re ductless.

d. They secrete hormones onto an epithelial surface.

3. What’s the name of the membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and invests the

internal organs?

a. Adhesion c. Peritoneum

b. Diaphragm d. Viscera

 4. Surgicalpunctureofthechestwallforaspirationofuidsiscalled

a. open thoracic surgery. c. thoracodynia.

b. thoracentesis. d. thoracoplasty.

5. Immunoglobulins that are formed to act against foreign cells or substances

are called

a. antibodies. c. phagocytes.

b. neoplasms. d. thrombocytes.

6. A term for excessive sweating is

a. hematopoiesis. c. hyperemia.

b. hyperhidrosis. d. polyuria.

7. A term that means tumor of a sweat gland is

a. hematoma. c. hydrophobia.

b. hidradenoma. d. omphaloma.

8. Organs that are located inside the body are termed

a. dorsal. c. internal.

b. external. d. plantar.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 2

Self-Check 2.2

9. You’re treating a patient who has a swollen eyelid caused by an infected eyelash.

What’s the proper term for the eyelid condition?

a. Blepheral c. Blepharoplegia

b. Blepharitis d. Blepharospasm

10. Apatienthasadiseaseofthengernailsofunknowncause.What’sthetermthat

best describes this condition?

a. Onychectomy c. Onychomycosis

b. Onychomalacia d. Onychopathy

11. Apatientcomplainsoffrequentlyhaving“writer’scramp”whiletakingnotesin

class. This is referred to as

a. chiroplasty. c. chiropody.

b. chiropodist. d. chirospasm.

Check your answers to the Practice Exercises with those in Appendix III of your

textbook. Check your answers to questions 1–11 with those at the end of this

study guide.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

LESSON 3: MUSCULOSKELETAL,

CIRCULATORY, AND

RESPIRATORY SYSTEM TERMS

INTRODUCTION

In lesson 2, you were introduced to the different body systems. Now, you’ll begin to learn

more about body systems in detail. This section will discuss medical terminologies related

to the musculoskeletal, circulatory, and respiratory systems. Chapters 6, 7, and 8 of your

textbook will provide comprehensive discussion on these systems.

SECTION 3.1: THE MUSCULOSKELETAL

SYSTEM

Read the following section, then read Chapter 6 in your textbook.

Objectives

When you complete this section, you’ll be able to build and identify medical terms

related to the musculoskeletal system.

Musculoskeletal refers to the muscles and the skeleton. The musculoskeletal system pro-

tects, supports, and aids in the movement of body parts. Apart from these functions, the

musculoskeletal system, particularly the bones, are essential in hematopoiesis or blood

production (hemat/o = blood, -poiesis = production). The bones also function to store fat

in the bone marrow and to store and release minerals.

STRUCTURES OF THE

MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM

The musculoskeletal system involves all the muscles, bones, joints, and other related

structures. The branch of medicine that aims to prevent and correct problems concerning

the bones and the muscles is known as orthopedics (orth/o = straight, ped/o = child, -ic =

pertaining to).

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

MAJOR BONES OF THE BODY

The human body is made up of 206 bones. There are two main divisions of the human

skeleton: axial and appendicular.



Axial skeleton



consists of 80 bones, including the bones of the skull, hyoid bone, auditory

ossicles (bones of the ears), vertebral column, sternum, and ribs



functions include central weight-bearing, and protection and maintenance of

posture



Appendicular skeleton



consists of 126 bones, including the shoulder girdle (scapula and clavicle),

upper and lower extremities, and the pelvic bones



functions include balance, stability, movement, and manipulation

The following table lists the major bones of the body, the meanings of their names, and

word associations.

Bone Combining Form Common Name Word Association

Bones of the Axial Skeleton

cranium crani/o skull craniotomy

costa cost/o rib intercostal

sternum stern/o breastbone sternotomy

spine (vertebrae) rachi/o, spin/o

spondyl/o, vertebr/o

backbone spondylosis



cervical



thoracic



lumbar



sacrum



coccyx

cervic/o spinal bones cervicalgia

thorac/o spinal bones thoracolumbar

lumb/o spinal bones lumbosacral

sacr/o spinal bones sacroiliac

coccyg/o tailbone coccygeal

Bones of the Appendicular Skeleton

clavicle claviculo/o collarbone clavicular

scapula scapul/o shoulder blade subscapular

Bones of the Upper Extremities

humerus humer/o upper arm bone humeral

radius radi/o radial

ulna uln/o ulnar

carpals carp/o wrist bones carpophalangeal

metacarpals metacarp/o bones of the hand

phalanges phalang/o bonesofthengers phalangitis

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

Bone Combining Form Common Name Word Association

Bones of the Pelvis

ilium ili/o pelvic bones iliac

ischium ischi/o pelvic bones ischial

pubis pub/o pelvic bones pubic

Bones of the Lower Extremities

femur femor/o thigh bone femoral

patella patella/o kneecap patellar

bula bul/o bones of the lower leg bulator

tibia tibi/o bones of the lower leg tibialis

tarsals tars/o ankle bones tarsus

calcaneus calcane/o heel bone calcaneal

metatarsals metatars/o bones of the feet metatarsalgia

phalanges phalang/o bones of the toes interphalanges

CARTILAGE

Cartilage is a dense, elastic connective tissue that covers and protects the ends of long

bones. The skeleton of the embryo is made up largely of cartilage. As one matures, the

cartilage is replaced with bones, except for some structures such as the external ear and

the nasal septum. The medical term chondral refers to cartilage.

MUSCLES, ARTICULATIONS, AND

ASSOCIATED STRUCTURES

Musclesconsistofcellsandbersthatcontractandproducebodymovement.Thethree

types of muscles are:



Cardiac muscle



heart muscle



Smooth muscle



otherwise known as visceral or involuntary muscle



found in the internal organs such as the stomach



Skeletal muscle



the only muscle that can be controlled voluntarily



attached to the bones

Fascia isabroustissuethat’sresponsibleforcovering,supporting,separating,and

allowing muscles to slide easily. Tendons, ontheotherhand,aretissuebersthatcon-

nect the muscles to the bone.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

Articulation, commonly known as joint, is the connection made between bones.

Articulations that have cavities between adjoining bones are known as synovial joints.

Ligaments are bands of connective tissues responsible for connecting bones and carti-

lages and, at the same time, are essential in supporting and strengthening joints.

DISEASES, DISORDERS, AND

DIAGNOSTIC TERMS

Although the most common cause of musculoskeletal problems is injury, other pathol-

ogies—such as infections, malignancies, and connective tissue disorders, to name a

few—can also affect the muscles and the bones.

Fractures and dislocations are the most common traumatic injuries sustained by the

bones. For the muscles, sprain and strain are usual occurrences. An injury to the spinal

cord is life-threatening. Cord injury may cause paralysis or paresis below the injured part.

para = beside quadri-, tetra- = four plegia = paralysis paresis = weakness



Paraplegia: paralysis of both legs



Quadriplegia/tetraplegia: paralysis of upper and lower extremities



Paraparesis: weakness of the both legs



Quadriparesis/tetrapresis: weakness of all four extremities

Intheprevioussections,youlearnedthatthesufx-itis meansinammation.Studythe

following list of infections affecting the musculoskeletal system:



cellul/o (little cell) + itis = cellulitis



my/o (muscle) + itis = myocellulitis



oste/o (bone) + itis = osteitis



chondro/o (cartilage) + itis = osteochondritis

Several types of malignancies or tumors affect the muscles and the bones. They may be

classiedasprimary (starts from the bones) or secondary (starts from another tissue, but

metastasizes to the bone).

Sarcomas = tumors that originate from the connective tissues, such as muscles and

bones



Chondrosarcoma = chondro + sarcoma (masses of cartilage)



Fibrosarcoma = bro + sarcoma (tumorwithbroustissue)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

Alterations with metabolism can lead to bone destruction and problems with bone for-

mation. The following combining words are associated with bone disorders arising from

metabolic problems:



deformans (deformity/disguring) : osteitis deformans



malacia (softening) : osteomalacia



-porosis (thinning) : osteoporosis

In some instances, clients are born with developmental defects that cause skeletal mal-

formation.Herearesomeexamples:



Spina bida bida: divided into two parts



Scoliosis scoliosis: curvature



Kyphosis kyphos: hunchback



Muscular dystrophy dys (bad) + trophy (nutrition)



Craniocele crani/o (skull) + -cele (herniation)



Tarsoptosis tars/o (ankle) + -ptosis (prolapsed)

Any disease of the joint is known as arthropathy. Describe the following medical terms

based on the meanings you learned in the previous chapters. Remember that arthr/o

refers to the joint.



Arthroscopy



Arthroscope



Arthrotomy



Arthritis

Arthritisdenotesanyjointinammation.Thereareseveraltypesofarthritis:



Osteoarthritis



Rheumatoid arthritis



Spondylarthritis



Polyarthritis

Other connective tissue disorders include the following:



Bursitis: inammationofthebursa



Lupus erythematosus: autoimmune disease involving the connective tissues



Gout: acute form of arthritis caused by a metabolic disease



Ankylosis: stiffening of the joints

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

SURGICAL AND THERAPEUTIC

INTERVENTIONS

Orthopedic surgeons perform surgical procedures to restore bones to their normal func-

tion.Recallthefollowingsufxesintroducedintheprevioussections:

-plasty: repair

-ectomy: removal or excision

-otomy: creation of opening

-centesis: extractionofuidfromabodycavity

The following are common surgical procedures associated with the musculoskeletal

system:

vertebroplasty vertebro + plasty repair of the vertebrae

arthroplasty arthro + plasty repair or reconstruction of a joint

tendoplasty tendo + plasty repair of tendons

myoplasty myo + plasty repair of muscle

tendomyoplasty tendo + myo + plasty repair of the tendons and the muscles

cranioplasty cranio + plasty repair of the skull

bunionectomy bunion + ectomy excision of a bunion

ostectomy osteo + ectomy excision of a bone

costectomy cost + ectomy excision of a rib

craniectomy crani + ectomy excision of a skull segment

laminectomy lamina + ectomy removal of a lamina (portion of the

vertebra)

diskectomy disk + ectomy total excision of an intervertebral disk

chondrectomy chondro + ectomy excision of a cartilage

arthrocentesis arthro + centesis extractionofaccumulateduidinthe

synovial joint

Anti-inammatories and anti-arthritics are various forms of medications that treat arthritis

and other connective tissue disorders. Note that anti- isaprexmeaningagainst,thus:



Anti-inammatories:drugsthatreduceinammationandpain



Anti-arthritis: drugs that provide relief from arthritic symptoms

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

Self-Check 3.1

Complete Practice Exercises 1–15 and A–J found in Chapter 6 of your textbook,

then answer questions 1–15.

Choose the correct answer.

1. Displacement of a bone from a joint is called

a. dislocation. c. sprain.

b. fracture. d. strain.

2. Surgical repair of the skull is called

a. cephaloplasty. c. cranioplasty.

b. cephalotomy. d. craniotomy.

3. Visualization of the interior of a joint is called

a. arthroscope. c. chondroscopy.

b. arthroscopy. d. endoscope.

 4. Inammationofajointis

a. arthritis. c. osteoarthritis.

b. chondritis. d. osteochondritis.

5. Osteoid means _______ bone.

a. growth of c. resembling

b. inammationof d. softening of

 6. Replacementofbonemarrowbybroustissueiscalled

 a. brosclerosis. c. osteoarthritis.

b. myelobrosis. d. osteobrosis.

 7. Inammationofmorethanonejointiscalled

a. arthrocentesis. c. polyarthritis.

b. arthrodynia. d. quadriplegia.

8. The term that means pertaining to a rib and a vertebra is

a. costal. c. spondylocostal.

b. costovertebral. d. sternocostal.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

Self-Check 3.1

9. A condition in which the whole spine is stiffened is called

a. ankylosed spine. c. scoliosis.

b. kyphosis. d. spinabida.

10. Atermthatmeanspertainingtothewristandthengersis

a. carpophalangeal. c. metatarsal.

b. metacarpal. d. tarsophalangeal.

11. Which adjective does not pertain to a bone of the arm?

a. Costal c. Radial

b. Humeral d. Ulnar

12. A skeletal disorder in adults characterized by a disturbance in bone metabolism

andcommonlycausedbyadeciencyofvitaminDis

a. kyphosis. c. osteomyelitis.

b. osteomalacia. d. rickets.

13. Bones that are located between the toes and the bones of the ankle are

a. carpals. c. metatarsals.

b. metacarpals. d. tarsals.

14. Which of the following muscle types are under the voluntary control of a person?

a. Cardiac c. Smooth

b. Skeletal d. Visceral

15. A 74-year-old post-menopausal woman who has reduced bone mass likely has

which of the following?

a. Osteitis deformans c. Osteoporosis

b. Osteomalacia d. Spondylomalacia

Check your answers to the Practice Exercises with those in Appendix III of your

textbook. Check your answers to questions 1–15 with those at the end of this

study guide.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

SECTION 3.2: THE CIRCULATORY

SYSTEM

Read the following section, then read Chapter 7 in your textbook.

Objective

When you complete this section, you’ll be able to build, identify, and analyze medical

terms referring to the circulatory system.

The circulatory system is made up of the cardiovascular system and the lymphatic sys-

tem. This body system functions to maintain homeostasis by:



Transporting oxygen, nutrients, vitamins, antibodies, and other substances



Taking away waste and carbon dioxide

CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM

Structures of the Cardiovascular System

The cardiovascular (cardio + vascul + ar) system consists of the heart and the

blood vessels.

Heart

The heart is an organ in the chest that pumps blood through the veins and arteries. It has

four chambers:



Right and left atria (plural for atrium)



Right and left ventricles

Atrial and ventricular refer to the atrium and ventricle, respectively. Atrio + ventricular (AV)

valves are found between the atria and the ventricles. These valves are made up of cus-

pids (smallapsthatmakeuptheAVvalves).

tricuspid tri (three) + cuspid valve on the right side of the heart

bicuspid bi (two) + cuspid valve on the left side of the heart,

otherwise known as mitral valve

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

Semilunar valvesregulatetheowofbloodtoandfromthelungs:



Pulmonic valve:controlstheowofbloodtothelungs



Aortic valve:controlstheowofbloodintotheaorta

The pericardium (peri + card + ium) is a double membrane that surrounds the heart and

the great vessels. The heart wall is made up of several layers:



Epicardium: outer layer



Myocardium: muscular middle layer



Endocardium: inner layer

Blood Vessels

Thecirculatorysystemismadeupofvetypesofbloodvesselsthattransportblood

throughout the entire body:



Arteries: carry oxygenated blood from the heart to the different body parts



Arterioles: small blood vessels that connect the arteries to the capillaries



Capillaries: smallest blood vessels where oxygenation and nutrients occur



Venules: small blood vessels that connect the capillaries to the veins



Veins: carry deoxygenated blood from the different parts of the body to the heart

Note that the pulmonary artery is the only artery that carries deoxygenated blood and the

pulmonary vein is the only vein that carries oxygenated blood.

The coronary arteries carry oxygenatedandnutrient-lledbloodtothemyocardium

(heart muscle).

The following table lists the combining forms associated with the blood vessels.

Combining Form Meaning Word Association

angi/o, vas/o,

vascul/o

vessel An angiogram is a radiologic test that views

bloodowwithintheveinsorarteries.

aort/o aorta An aortogram is an invasive procedure in which

a catheter is placed in the aorta and a contrast

material is injected.

arter/o, arteri/o artery Arteriosclerosis refers to the thickening, harden-

ing, and loss of elasticity of the arterial walls.

arteriol/o arteriole Arteriolopathy refers to any disease of the

arterioles.

ather/o yellow, fatty plaque The build-up of plaque in the arterial walls is

known as atherosclerosis.

phleb/o, ven/o vein Phlebitis or venitisistheinammationofthe

veins.

venul/o venule Venulitis isinammationofthevenules.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

Diseases, Disorders, and Diagnostic Terms

Cardiomyopathy is the general diagnostic term used to identify a disease of the heart

muscle. The following are examples of cardiomyopathy. Note the meaning of the

sufx-itis.



Myocarditis:inammationofthemyocardium(heartmuscle)



Endocarditis:inammationoftheendocardium



Pericarditis:inammationofthepericardium

There are several tests used to diagnose cardiac problems. Some of the most common

tests include:



Electrocardiogram electr/o + cardi/o + -gram



measures the electrical activity of the heart



electrocardiography: a noninvasive procedure used to record electrical activ-

ity of the heart



electrocardiograph: record of the heart’s electrical activity



Echocardiogram echo + cardi/o + -gram



record of the heart’s sonogram



echocardiography: the use of sound waves to produce live images of

the heart



Positron emission tomography



isusefulinexaminingtheowofbloodintheheartandbloodvessels



a radioactive element is used



Cardiac catheterization



a procedure in which a catheter is moved through a blood vessel to the heart

to diagnose heart disorders

Study the following list of diseases and disorders affecting the heart:



Angina pectoris



Arrhythmia



Cardiomegaly



Congenital heart defects



Congestive heart failure



Coronary artery disease



Coronary heart disease



Fibrillation

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3



Heartmurmur



Hyperlipidemia



Hypertension



Infarction



Myocardial ischemia



Septal defect



Shock

Thedistributionofbloodtothevariouspartsofthebodyisinuencedbythediameterof

the blood vessels:



Vasoconstriction: decrease in the diameter of a blood vessel



vaso + constriction



Vasodilation: increase in the diameter of a blood vessel



vaso + dilation

Angiomas are benign tumors made up of blood vessels (hemangioma) or lymph vessels

(lymphangioma).

There are several radiologic studies involving the blood vessels. These include:

aortography aorto +

graphy

x-ray of the aorta

with the use of a

contrast dye

aortogram record

produced

arteriography arterio +

graphy

x-ray of the arteries

using a radiopaque

material

arteriogram image

produced

angiocardiography angio +

cardio +

graphy

x-ray of the heart

and great vessels

using a dye

Surgical and Therapeutic Interventions

Healthcaretechnologyhasgreatlyimprovedinthepastfewdecades,leadingtomajor

advances in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Cardiopulmonary pertains to the

heart and lungs.



Cardiopulmonary bypass: a technique that temporarily takes over the function of

the heart and the lungs during surgery



Cardioversion: a procedure in which an electric current is used to reset the heart’s

rhythm back to its normal pattern



Cardiopulmonary resuscitation: a series of lifesaving actions that improve a client’s

chances of survival after a cardiac arrest

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

Heartproblemsarecorrectedusingseveralmedications,includingthefollowing:



Digoxin: a cardiac glycoside used in the treatment of clients with congestive heart

failure and/or dysrhythmia



Nitroglycerin: a vasodilator often given to clients with angina pectoris

For blood vessel problems, these medications are frequently used:



Thrombolytics (thromb/o + lytic): medications that dissolve clots



Vasodilators: medications that dilate the blood vessels



Antihypertensives: medications that decrease blood pressure



Diuretics: medications that facilitate excretion of water by the kidneys



Antilipidemics: medications that decrease cholesterol levels

Vascular problems that cannot be corrected with medications may need to be treated

using some of these procedures:

angioplasty angio + plasty repair of the blood vessels

atherectomy ather/o + ectomy insertion of a specialized catheter to

remove plaque from the arterial lining

aortoplasty aort/o + plasty repair of the aorta

phlebectomy phleb + ectomy excision of a vein or a vein segment

hemorrhoidectomy hemorrhoid + ectomy excision of a hemorrhoid

LYMPHATIC SYSTEM

Otherwiseknownas“thelymphatics,”thelymphaticsystemperformsthefollowing

functions:



Returntheuidthatescapedfromthebloodvesselsbacktocirculation



Defend the body against disease

STRUCTURES OF THE LYMPHATIC

SYSTEM



Lymph:uidthatcirculatesinthelymphaticsystem



Lymph vessels: thin tubes that carry lymph and white blood cells



Lymph nodes:smallroundglandsthatlterlymphthroughoutthebody

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3



Tonsils: collections of lymphoid tissue found in the pharynx



palatine tonsils: located at the back of the throat



pharyngeal tonsils: commonly referred to as “adenoids”



Thymus: gland in the upper chest cavity that processes lymphocytes



Spleen: produces antibodies and lymphocytes

The following table lists some word parts related to the lymphatic system:

Word Part Meaning Word Association

adenoid/o adenoids Adenoidectomy is the surgical removal of

the adenoids.

cervic/o neck or the uterus Cervicalgia means neck pain.

Inammationofthecervixisknownas

cervicitis.

home/o sameness Homeostasis refers to the ability of the

physiological system to maintain internal

stability.

lymphat/o lymphatics A disease or enlargement of the lymph

nodes is lymphadenopathy.

splen/o spleen Splenomegaly is the enlargement of the

spleen.

thromb/o thrombus, blood clot Thrombolysis is the breakdown of blood

clots.

Diseases, Disorders, and Diagnostic Terms

Any disease involving the lymph nodes is referred to as lymphadenopathy. Study the fol-

lowing table for additional terms referring to pathological terms and diagnoses related to

the lymphatics.

lymphoma lymph + oma cancer that originates from the lym-

phatic system

lymphadenoma lymph + aden + oma tumor of the lymph node

lymphangitis lymph + ang + itis acuteorchronicinammationofthe

lymphatic vessels

lymphadenitis lymph + aden + itis inammationofthelymphnodes

lymphedema lymph + edema Accumulation of lymph in the tissue

that results in swelling.

Elephantiasis is a form of edema

caused by parasites.

lymphangiography lymph + angio + graphy radiologic study of the lymphatic ves-

sels and nodes using a contrast dye

lymphangiogram lymph + angio + gram x-ray of the lymphatic vessels and

nodes

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

Surgical and Therapeutic Interventions

Antibiotics or anti-infective medications are the usual lines of treatment for infections of

the lymph nodes and lymph vessels.

In more severe problems of the lymphatic system such as cancer, excision of the affected

lymphatic structure may be necessary. Recall the meaning of the following terms:



Lymphadenectomy



Splenectomy



Tonsillectomy



Adenoidectomy

Self-Check 3.2

Complete Practice Exercises 1–13 and A–H found in Chapter 7 of your text-

book, then answer questions 1–11.

Choose the correct answer.

 1. Theuidtransportedbylymphaticvesselsis

a. lymph. c. plasma.

b. lymphoma. d. serum.

2. Polyarteritis is

a. arthritis in many joints.

b. inammationofmanyarteries.

c. many heart abnormalities.

d. plastic surgery of the arteries.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

Self-Check 3.2

3. The name of the record produced by recording the electrical currents of the heart

muscle is

a. echocardiogram. c. electrocardiogram.

b. echocardiography. d. electrocardiography.

4. Arterioles are small

a. arteries that carry blood to arteries.

b. arteries that receive blood from arteries.

c. blood vessels that carry blood to the inferior vena cava.

d. blood vessels that receive blood from veins.

 5. Inammationoftheliningoftheheartis

a. endocarditis. c. pericarditis.

b. myocarditis. d. polyarteritis.

6. An excessive quantity of fat in the blood is called

a. hyperkalemia. c. hypernatremia.

b. hyperlipidemia. d. hypertension.

7. Vasodilation is a/an

a. decrease in the diameter of a blood vessel.

b. drug that dilates the blood vessels.

c. synonym for vasoconstriction.

d. increase in the diameter of a blood vessel.

8. A 55-year-old man had which device implanted in his chest to detect sustained

ventriculartachycardiaorbrillationanddeliveralow-energyshocktotheheart,

restoring the normal rhythm?

 a. Automatedexternaldebrillator c. Electrocardiogram

b. Cardioverter-debrillator d. Pacemaker

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

Self-Check 3.2

9. A 74-year-old man underwent which operation when the blockages in his coronary

arteries were too severe for a percutaneous procedure to be effective?

a. Aortography

b. Atherectomy

c. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation

d. Coronary artery bypass graft

10. A3-month-oldboyhasa“hole”inhisheart.Thisisbetterdescribedas

a. a septal defect. c. myocardial infarction.

b. congestive heart failure. d. myocardial ischemia.

11. The mitral valve is also referred to as the _______ valve.

a. bicuspid c. semilunar

b. sinoatrial d. tricuspid

Check your answers to the Practice Exercises with those in Appendix III of your

textbook. Check your answers to questions 1–11 with those at the end of this

study guide.

SECTION 3.3: THE RESPIRATORY

SYSTEM

Read the following section, then read Chapter 8 in your textbook.

Objective

When you complete this section, you’ll be able to write, recognize, and analyze med-

ical terms pertaining to the respiratory system.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

Otherwise known as the pulmonary system, the respiratory system (spir/o = to breathe)

functions primarily to deliver oxygen to the body tissues and get rid of carbon dioxide.

This function is achieved through breathing or ventilation. There are two processes

involved in ventilation:



Inspiration/inhalation: movement of air into the lungs



Expiration/exhalation: movement of air out of the lungs

A pulmonologist (pulmon/o + -logist) is a specialist in the anatomy, physiology, and

pathology of the lungs, while a respiratory therapist evaluates and treats respiratory dis-

orders at the direction of a physician.

STRUCTURES OF THE RESPIRATORY

SYSTEM

The respiratory system consists of the upper and lower respiratory tracts. The follow-

ing diagram illustrates the movement of air into the respiratory tract with the associated

structures.

UPPER

RESPIRATORY

TRACT

LOWER

RESPIRATORY

TRACT

NOSE NASAL CAVITY NASOPHARYNX

OROPHARYNX

LUNG CAPILLARIES

ALVEOLI

BRONCHIOLES BRONCHI TRACHEA

LARYNGOPHARYNX

LARYNX

FIGURE 2—Upper and Lower Respiratory Systems

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

The following respiratory structures are important to note:



Diaphragm



serves as the main muscle of respiration



separates the abdominal cavity from the thoracic (thora/o = chest) cavity



Pleura: membrane that surrounds the lungs



Lungs



a pair of large, spongy organs used for gas exchange



the right lung has three lobes while the left lung has two lobes



Sinuses



lighten the weight of the skull



Four sinuses: frontal, ethmoid, maxillary, sphenoid



para + nasal sinuses



(para = beside, nas/o = nose, -al = pertaining to)



 thefrontalandmaxillarysinusesareair-lledpairedcavitieslocated

around the nose



Pharynx: throat



Larynx: voice box

Study the combining forms of the following respiratory structures along with the word

associations and their meanings.

Combining Form Meaning Word Association

alveol/o alveolus/alveoli Alveolar ventilation refers to the volume of

gas expired from the alveoli.

bronch/o,

bronchi/o

bronchus/bronchi A bronchodilator is a medication that opens

up the bronchioles.

Bronchitisistheinammationofthebronchial

tubes.

bronchiol/o bronchiole Inammationofthebronchiolesisknownas

bronchioloitis.

epiglott/o epiglottis Epiglottitis is a life-threatening condition in

which the epiglottis swells.

laryng/o larynx (voice box) Laryngospasm is the uncontrolled and invol-

untary muscular contraction of the vocal

folds.

lob/o lobe The surgical removal of a lobe of an organ is

referred to as lobectomy.

nas/o, rhin/o nose The nasopharynx refers to the upper part of

the throat behind the nose.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

Combining Form Meaning Word Association

phren/o diaphragm The phrenic nerve supports the movement of

the diaphragm.

pleur/o pleura Pleuritis or pleurisy istheinammationofthe

pleura or the lining of the lungs.

pharyng/o pharynx (throat) Pharyngitis istheinammationofthephar-

ynx,otherwiseknownas“sore throat.”

pneu/o, pneu-

mon/o, pulm/o,

pulmono/o

lung Pneumonia is the infection of one or both

lungs.

The medical specialty that deals with dis-

eases involving the respiratory tract is known

as pulmonology.

trache/o trachea Tracheostomy is a surgical procedure that

creates an opening in the trachea.

DISEASES, DISORDERS,

AND DIAGNOSTIC TERMS

Two of the most common noninvasive measurements used to collect data about a client’s

respiratory status are oximetry and spirometry.



Oximetry



measurement of the blood oxygen saturation in the arteries



oximeter: a device used to measure oxygen saturation of the blood



Spirometry (spiro + metry)



measurementofairowtakeninandexhaledfromthelungs



spirometer: instrument used for measuring air inhaled to and exhaled out of

the lungs

Thesufx–pnea denotes breathing. Study the following list for medical terms pertaining

to respirations.

eupnea eu- (normal) eu + pnea normal respirations

dyspnea dys- (bad) dys + pnea laboredanddifcultbreathing

apnea a- (absence) a + pnea temporary absence of

breathing

orthopnea orth/o- (straight) ortho + pnea difcultybreathinginanyposi-

tion other than upright or sitting

position

bradypnea brady- (slow) brady + pnea abnormal breathing, less than

12 breaths per minute

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

tachypnea tachy- (fast) tachy + pnea respirations more than

20 breaths per minute

hyperpnea hyper- (more

than normal)

hyper + pnea abnormally deep or rapid

respiration

Aside from the previous list, the following terms are frequently used in relation to the

respiratory system:



hyperventilation (hyper + ventilation): excessive ventilation of the lungs



hypoventilation (hypo + ventilation):insufcientexchangeofoxygenandcarbon

dioxide in the lungs



hypoxia (hyp + ox + ia): diminished oxygenation to the tissues



anoxia (an + ox + ia): extreme form of hypoxia, severe lack of oxygen in the tissues

Similartothecirculatorysystem,therespiratorysystemcanbeafictedwithanumberof

disorders.Reviewthedenitionsofthefollowingrespiratorydisorders:



Adult respiratory distress syndrome



Asthma



Atelectasis



Bronchiectasis



Bronchography



Lung carcinoma



Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease



Emphysema



Inuenza



Nasal polyp



Pleuritis



Pneumoconiosis



Pulmonary embolism



Severe acute respiratory syndrome



Silicosis



Sudden infant death syndrome



Tuberculosis

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

SURGICAL AND THERAPEUTIC

INTERVENTIONS

Asphyxia denotes a severe decrease in the supply of oxygen in the body secondary to

abnormal breathing. Methods used to address this problem may include the use of the

Heimlich maneuver or, in severe cases, endotracheal intubation.



Heimlich maneuver



otherwise known as abdominal thrust



rst-aidprocedureusedtoremoveairwayforeignbodyobstruction,suchasin

the case of choking



Endotracheal intubation (endo = inside + trache/o + al):insertionofarticialairway

into the trachea



nasotracheal intubation (nas/o = nose)



insertion of an airway tube through the nose



orotracheal intubation (or/o = mouth)



insertion of an airway tube through the mouth



Ventilator



anapparatususedtoadministerarticialrespirationincasesofrespiratory

failure

In severe cases, respiratory disorders may need to be treated surgically. The follow-

ing table lists some of the most common surgical procedures related to the respiratory

system.

Surgical Procedure Word Parts Denition

tracheotomy trach/o + tomy creation of an opening in the trachea

tracheostomy trach/o + ostomy creationofarticialairwayinthe

trachea

biopsy

percutaneous

bi + o + o/psy

per + cutane/o

removal of small tissue for examination

puncturing the skin to obtain a sample

of the tissue

pneumonectomy pneumon/o + ectomy removal of all or part of the lungs

lobectomy lob/o + ectomy removal of a lobe of the lung

rhinoplasty rhin/o + plasty surgical repair of the nose

pneumocentesis pneum/o + centesis punctureofthelungstoremoveuid

thoracentesis thorac/o + centesis puncture of the chest cavity to drain

uid

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

Respiratory disorders may also be treated with medications. Review the purpose of the

followingdrugclassications:



Decongestants de + congest + ant



Antitussives anti + tussive



Antihistamines anti + histamine



Bronchodilators broncho + dilat/o + or



Mucolytics muco + lys/o + tics

Self-Check 3.3

Complete Practice Exercises 1–10 and A–G found in Chapter 8 of your

textbook, then answer questions 1–14.

Choose the correct answer.

1. A term that means pertaining to the windpipe and the bronchi is

a. bronchiectasis. c. pharyngobronchial.

b. laryngobronchial. d. tracheobronchial.

2. Atelectasis is

a. a collapsed or airless condition of the lungs.

b. an acute, contagious respiratory infection.

c. chronic dilation of the lungs.

d. paroxysmal dyspnea.

3. Removal of lung tissue is called

a. pneumatic. c. pneumonectomy.

b. pneumohemothorax. d. pneumothorax.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

Self-Check 3.3

4. The term pneumocardial pertains to the

a. chest and lungs. c. heart and lungs.

b. heart and kidneys. d. kidneys and lungs.

5. Absence of breathing is termed

a. apnea. c. hypopnea.

b. dyspnea. d. hyperpnea.

6. Rhinitisisinammationofthe

a. chest. c. throat.

b. nose. d. voice box.

7. The term pulmonary refers to the

a. chest. c. heart.

b. diaphragm. d. lungs.

8. A respiratory condition in which there’s discomfort in breathing in any position

except sitting erect or standing is

a. apnea. c. orthopnea.

b. bradypnea. d. tachypnea.

9. Tiny air sacs through which the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide takes

place are called

a. alveoli. c. bronchioles.

b. bronchi. d. emboli.

10. The term for a whistling sound made during respiration is

a. nares. c. thrombus.

b. pleura. d. wheeze.

11. A 72-year-old man has orders to have his oxygen levels checked. This can be

done using

a. endotracheal intubation. c. an oximeter.

b. a bronchogram. d. a spirometer.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 3

Self-Check 3.3

12. A 75-year-old woman with a left cerebrovascular accident (stroke) is now unable

tospeak.Youdocumentwhichtermtoindicatethisdecit?

a. Anoxia c. Dysphasia

b. Aphasia d. Dysphonia

13. An instructor says that this disease has been nearly eradicated in developed

countries. Which disease is probably being discussed?

 a. Inuenza c. Thoracentesis

b. Pharyngitis d. Tuberculosis

14. A 29-year-old woman is trying to break up sputum by using which type of over-the-

counter medication?

a. Antihistamine c. Bronchodilator

b. Bronchoconstrictor d. Mucolytic

Check your answers to the Practice Exercises with those in Appendix III of your

textbook. Check your answers to questions 1–14 with those at the end of this

study guide.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4

LESSON 4: DIGESTIVE, URINARY,

AND REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM

TERMS

INTRODUCTION

In the previous section, you became familiar with medical terminologies related to the

musculoskeletal, circulatory, and respiratory systems. This section will focus on medical

vocabularies and jargons related to digestion, micturition or urination, and reproduc-

tion. Detailed discussion on these systems can be found in Chapters 9, 10, and 11 of

your textbook.

SECTION 4.1: DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

Read the following section, then read Chapter 9 in your textbook.

Objectives

When you complete this section, you’ll be able to distinguish and analyze medical

terms associated with the digestive system.

THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

The digestive system is responsible for the provision of water, nutrients, and minerals

to the body. Alimentation (alimentum = to nourish) is the term used for the process of

giving or receiving nutrition, while metabolism is used to describe all the body processes

involved in maintaining life.

There are four processes involved in digestion:



Ingestion: takingfoodsoruidsorally



Digestion: physical and chemical breakdown of food into smaller components that

can be absorbed in the bloodstream



Absorption: passage of food molecules from the small intestine into the blood and

lymph capillaries



Elimination: removal of food particles that were not digested through defecation

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4

Nutrientsareclassiedintothreemajorcategories.They’refurtherbrokendowninto

simpler substances known as enzymes. Thefollowingtablesummarizesnutrientclassi-

cationsandtheirspecicenzymes(-ase = enzyme).

Nutrient Classication Associated Enzyme/s Word Parts

carbohydrates lactase (breaks down lactose)

amylase (breaks down starch)

lact + ase

amyl + ase

proteins protease

proteinase

prote + ase

protein + ase

fats lipase lip + ase

Study the following word parts related to digestion and nutrition:

Word Part Meaning Word Association

-ation action or process Defecation is the process of passing out stool

or feces via the anus.

bil/i, chol/e bile The biliary system consists of the liver, gall-

bladder, and the bile duct.

cirrh/o orange-yellow Liver cirrhosis refers to the chronic scarring

and damage to the liver.

de- down, from, reversing, or

removing

The removal of an amino group from a mole-

cule is known as deamination.

glycos/o sugar Glycolysis is the breakdown of glucose for cel-

lular metabolism.

-orexia appetite Anorexia is the loss of appetite.

-pepsia digestion Dyspepsia is the term used to describe indi-

gestion or painful and upset stomach.

vag/o vagus nerve The vasovagal syncope is the sudden loss of

consciousness caused by affectation of the

vagus nerve.

viscer/o viscera Visceral pain is a pain that originates from

body organs.

Structures of the Digestive System

The structures of the digestive system can be divided into two categories: alimentary tract

and the accessory organs of digestion.

Alimentary Tract

The alimentary tract, otherwise known as the digestive tract, starts from the mouth and

continues down to the anus.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4



Intestinal intestin/o = intestines + -al



Gastrointestinal gastr/o = stomach + -al

The alimentary canal consists of two parts, the upper and lower gastrointestinal tract.

Upper

Gastrointestinal

Tract

Digestive

Organs

Word Part Word Association

lips cheil/o cheilosis

teeth dent/i, dent/o, odont/o dentistry

gums gingiv/o gingivitis

tongue gloss/o, lingu/o glossitis

mouth or/o, stomat/o oropharynx

esophagus esophag/o esophagitis

stomach gastr/o gastroenterologist

Lower

Gastrointestinal

Tract

intestines intestin/o, enter/o intestinal, enteritis

duodenum duoden/o duodenal

jejunum jejun/o jejunostomy

ileum ile/o ileostomy

colon or large

intestine

col/o, colon/o colonoscopy

appendix append/o, appendic/o appendectomy

cecum cec/o ileocecal

sigmoid colon sigmoid/o sigmoidectomy

anus or rectum proct/o proctologist

rectum rect/o rectal

anus an/o anal

Accessory Organs of Digestion

Proper digestion and absorption of nutrients is aided by the secretion of substances by

the accessory organs of digestion. These organs include the liver, gallbladder, pancreas,

and salivary glands. The following table lists the word parts related to the accessory

organs of digestion.

Word Part Meaning Word Association

cholecyst/o gallbladder Cholecystectomy is the surgical removal of

the gallbladder.

choledocho/o common bile duct The presence of gallstones in the common

bile duct is referred to as choledocholithiasis.

hepat/o liver Hepatitis referstotheinammatorycondition

of the liver.

pancreat/o pancreas Pancreatography is the radiographic examina-

tion of the pancreas.

sial/o salivary gland Sialorrhea refers to excessive salivation.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4

Diseases, Disorders, and Diagnostic Terms

Diseases and disorders of the digestive system are usually diagnosed through radiology

or endoscopy.

Radiologic studies of the digestive system (-graphy = process of recording):



Esophagography: esophagi/o + graphy



Sialography: sial/o + graphy

Endoscopic examinations (-scopy = visual examination):



Esophagoscopy: esophag/o + scopy



Gastroscopy: gastr/o + scopy



Colonoscopy: colon/o + scopy



Sigmoidoscopy: sigmoid/o + scopy



Proctoscopy: proct/o + scopy

The presence of stones in the digestive organs is a common occurrence (lith/o = stone).

The following are examples:



Cholelithiasis: chole + lith + iasis



Choledocholithiasis: choledocho + lith + iasis



Pancreatolithiasis: pancreato + lith + iasis

Diabetes mellitus is a group of diseases that pertain to the body’s utilization of glucose.

Lack of insulin or insulin resistance results in hyper + glycemia (hyper = increased, glyc/o

= sugar, emia = blood). Hyperglycemia may lead to the following signs and symptoms

(poly = excessive):



Poly + phagia (eating)



Poly + uria (urination)



Poly + dipsia (thirst)

Theprexhyper is also used in the following disorders (hyper = excessive or increased):



Hyperlipidemia: hyper + lipid + emia



increased level of lipids in the blood, including cholesterol and triglycerides



Hyperemesis: hyper + emesis



excessive vomiting

Other health concerns related to the digestive system include:



Obesity



Emaciation

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4



Anorexia nervosa



Bulimia



Malabsorption



Malnutrition



Dehydration

Surgical and Therapeutic Interventions

Some clients may need to be fed via an enteral (enter/o = intestine) feeding tube. The

three most common types of feeding tubes are:



Nasogastric: naso + gastr/o + ic



Nasoduodenal: naso + duoden/o + al



Nasojejunal: naso + jejun/o + al

Selected surgical procedures include:

esophagostomy esophag/o + stomy

stomy = formation of an opening

gastrostomy gastr/o + stomy

jejunostomy jejuno/o + stomy

colostomy col/o + stomy

ileostomy ile/o + stomy

vagotomy vag/o + tomy tomy = creation of incision

gastroplasty gastr/o + plasty plasty = repair

lithotripsy lith/o + tripsy tripsy = surgical crushing

appendectomy append/o + ectomy

ectomy = excision

cholecystectomy cholecyst/o + ectomy

gastrectomy gastr/o + ectomy

hemorrhoidectomy hemorrhoid/o + ectomy

pancreatolithectomy pancreat/o + lith + ectomy

laparoscopy lapar/o + scopy scopy = visual examination

Some gastrointestinal problems may be treated with medications. These medications

include:



Antidiarrheal (anti + diarrheal)



relieves diarrhea



Antiemetic (anti + emetic)



relieves or prevents vomiting

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4



Emetic



induces vomiting



Laxative



promotes bowel movement



Purgative/cathartic



promotes complete bowel emptying

Self-Check 4.1

Complete Practice Exercises 1–11 and A–I found in Chapter 9 of your text-

book, then answer questions 1–15.

Choose the correct answer.

1. The term ileostomy means

a. creation of a surgical passage through the abdominal wall into the ileum.

b. endoscopic examination of the ileum.

c. herniation of the ileum.

d. prolapse of the ileum.

 2. Aconditionthatresultswhenoutputofbodyuidexceedsuidintakeistermed

a. achlorhydria. c. enterostasis.

b. dehydration. d. peristalsis.

3. Which of the following is not part of the small intestine?

a. Cecum c. Jejunum

b. Duodenum d. Ileum

4. A disorder that’s characterized by episodes of binge eating and often terminates in

self-induced vomiting is called

a. anorexia nervosa. c. emaciation.

b. bulimia. d. atulence.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4

Self-Check 4.1

5. Which of the following is a branch of dentistry that specializes in tooth alignment

and associated facial problems?

a. Endodontics c. Pedodontics

b. Orthodontics d. Periodontics

6. Washing out of the stomach is called

a. gastralgia. c. gastrodynia.

b. gastric lavage. d. stomal irrigation.

7. In which type of liver biopsy is liver tissue removed by puncturing the skin overly-

ing the liver with a needle?

a. Open c. Percutaneous

b. Resection d. Wedge

8. Gastrocele means herniation of the

a. gallbladder. c. liver.

b. large intestine. d. stomach.

9. Eupepsia means

 a. decientappetite. c. normal digestion.

b. excessive appetite. d. sluggish intestinal action.

10. A condition noted by yellowness of the skin, whites of the eyes, mucous mem-

branes,andbodyuidscausedbydepositionofbilepigmentisknownas

a. cholelithiasis. c. diarrhea.

b. dehydration. d. jaundice.

11. The branch of dentistry that specializes in the tissue that invests and supports the

teeth is called

a. orthodontics. c. periodontics.

b. pedodontics. d. periodontium.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4

Self-Check 4.1

12. The branch of medicine that specializes in the stomach, intestines, and associated

structures is called

a. gastroenterology. c. intestinology.

b. internal medicine. d. proctology.

13. Bile is produced by the liver and allows what to occur in the small intestine?

a. Breakdown and absorption of fats

b. Defecation of excess nutrients

c. Emesis of excess calories

d. Flatulence of excess gas

14. The American Cancer Society recommends which test at least once every 10

years beginning at age 50 for early detection of cancer in the intestines?

a. Appendectomy

b. Colonoscopy

c. Cholangiography

d. Gastroscopy

15. Apatientvisitsadentist’sofceforaroutineexamination.Sheistoldshehas

inammationofhergums.Thetermforthisconditionis

a. cheilitis.

b. gingivitis.

c. glossitis.

d. stomatitis.

Check your answers to the Practice Exercises with those in Appendix III of your

textbook. Check your answers to questions 1–15 with those at the end of this

study guide.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4

SECTION 4.2: URINARY SYSTEM

Read the following section, then read Chapter 10 in your textbook.

Objective

When you complete this section, you’ll be able to build, identify, and analyze medical

terms pertaining to the urinary system.

The urinary system, otherwise known as the renal system, serves many purposes. One

of these purposes is the elimination of waste products through urin + ation. Other func-

tions include:



Regulationofbloodpressure,bloodvolume,andbloodpH



Production of red blood cells (erythropoiesis = erythro + poiesis)



Synthesis of vitamin D

Urea: end product of waste excretion by the kidneys

Urology: branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of

the urinary tract and the urogenital system

Urologist: a physician who specializes in diseases of the urinary tract and the male repro-

ductive system

Study the following word parts pertaining to the urinary system.

Word Part Meaning Word Association

albumin/o albumin Albuminuria is a pathologic condition

wherein an abnormal amount of albumin is

present in the urine.

-ation process Urination is the act of voiding.

-esis action, process, or

result of

Increased excretion of urine is known as

diuresis.

glycos/o sugar The presence of glucose in the urine is

glycosuria.

olig/o few, scanty Oliguria is the reduction of urine volume.

ur/o urine or urinary tract The formation of urinary stones is known

as urolithiasis.

urin/o urine Urinal isaxtureusedforurination,espe-

cially by males.

-uria urine or urination The presence of blood in the urine is

referred to as hematuria.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4

STRUCTURES OF THE URINARY TRACT

The major structures of the urinary system include:



Right and left kidneys: producehormones,absorbminerals,lterblood,andpro-

duce urine



Right and left ureters: passageways of urine



Bladder: urine storage



Urethra: the tubular passage through which urine is expelled from the body

The nephron is the functional unit of the kidney. It has three functions, namely:

 1. Glomerularltration

2. Tubular reabsorption

3. Tubular secretion

The following table lists the word parts associated with the urinary system.

Combining Form Name of Structure Word Association

cyst/o bladder Cystogram is an x-ray examination of the

urinary bladder.

glomerul/o glomerulus Inammationoftheglomeruliisknownas

glomerulonephritis.

nephr/o, ren/o kidney A nephrologist is a physician who special-

izes in treating diseases of the kidneys.

Kidney failure is otherwise known as renal

failure.

pyel/o renal pelvis Pyelitis istheinammationoftherenal

pelvis.

ureter/o ureter Ureterectomy is the excision of the ureter.

urethr/o urethra Irritationandinammationoftheurethrais

known as urethritis.

DISEASES, DISORDERS, AND

DIAGNOSTIC TERMS

There are several tests used to diagnose diseases of the urinary system. One of the most

common tests is urinalysis (urin/o + analysis). This test needs a urine specimen, which

can either be a voided specimen or catheterized specimen.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4

Thepresenceofabnormalsubstancesintheurineprovidessignicantinformationabout

the client’s health status. Several examples are listed as follows:

Glycosuria glyc/o + uria sugar in the urine

Proteinuria protein/o + uria protein in the urine

Hematuria hem/o + uria blood in the urine

Albuminuria albumin/o + uria albumin in the urine

Pyuria py/o + uria pus in the urine

Ketonuria keton/o + uria ketones in the urine

Radiography and ultrasonography are also used to aid in the diagnosis of disorders of the

urinary system. Some of these tests include:



Renal angiography



Nephrotomography



Intravenous urography



Nephrosonography

Visualization procedures may also be used, namely:



Cystoscopy



Urethroscopy

Sincetheurinarysystemisresponsibleforltrationofthebloodandexcretionofwaste

products, stone (lith) formation isn’t uncommon.



Urolithiasis: presence of urinary stones



Cystolithiasis: presence of stones in the urinary bladder



Nephrolithiasis: presence of stones in the kidneys

Other pathological conditions related to the urinary system include the following:

Nephromalacia nephro + malacia softening of the kidneys

Nephromegaly nephron + megaly enlargement of the kidneys

Nephritis nephron/o + itis inammationofthekidney

Dysuria dys + uria painful urination

Polyuria poly + uria excessive urination

Anuria an + uria absence of urination

Oliguria oligi + uria diminished urine formation

Uremia ur/o + emia uric acid in the blood

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4

SURGICAL AND THERAPEUTIC

INTERVENTIONS

Surgical procedures and medications have been used to treat disorders of the urinary

system.

Insertion of tubes or urinary diversion is a common procedure. Some examples include:



Urethral catheterization



Ureteral catheterization



Suprapubic catheterization



Percutaneous nephrostomy

In extreme cases, when the kidneys are unable to excrete waste products from the blood,

dialysis may be necessary.

dia = through lysis = freeing or destroying

Hemodialysis hemo + dia + lysis theuseofamachinetolterblood

Peritoneal dialysis periton/o + eal theuseoftheperitoneumasalter

A number of surgeries have been utilized to treat problems involving the urinary system.

Some of these include:

Word Parts Word Association

cyst/o = bladder

nephr/o = renal pelvis

pyel/o = renal pelvis

lith/o = stone

-stomy

new opening

Cystostomy is the surgical

creation of an opening into the

bladder.

The creation of a new open-

ing into the renal pelvis of

the kidney is referred to as

nephrostomy or pyelostomy.

-tripsy

surgical crushing

Lithotripsy is the surgical crush-

ing of a stone.

-tomy

incision

Nephrotomy is an incision of the

kidney.

-pexy

surgicalxation

Nephropexy is the term used to

describe surgical attachment of

a prolapsed kidney.

-plasty

surgical repair

Surgical reconstruction of

the ureters is known as

ureteroplasty.

Some substances affect the formation and excretion of urine. Diuretics promote urination,

while antidiuretics inhibit urination. Examples of diuretics include coffee, tea, alcohol,

and water.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4

Self-Check 4.2

Complete Practice Exercises 1–10 and A–H found in Chapter 10 of your

textbook, then answer questions 1–15 below.

Choose the correct answer.

1. The term for painful, burning urination is

a. diuresis. c. nephrolithiasis.

b. dysuria. d. voiding.

 2. Aconditioninwhichtherearedegenerativebutnotinammatorychangesinthe

kidneys is called

a. catheterization.

b. nephritis.

c. nephrosis.

d. percutaneous nephrostomy.

3. An increased concentration of a particular type of protein in the urine is

a. albuminuria. c. hematuria.

b. glycosuria. d. pyuria.

4. Urinary retention is

a. complete failure of the kidney.

b. inability to empty the bladder.

c. inability to hold urine in the bladder.

d. partial functioning of the kidney.

5. Pus in the urine is called

a. albuminuria. c. pyuria.

b. hematuria. d. uremia.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4

Self-Check 4.2

 6. Atypeofnephritisinwhichtheglomeruliofthekidneyareinamediscalled

a. glomerulonephritis. c. nephrosis.

b. nephrolithiasis. d. polycystic kidney disease.

 7. Thepartofthenephronthatltersthebloodisthe

a. collecting duct. c. loopofHenle.

b. glomerulus. d. tubule.

8. The instrument used in cystoscopy is a

a. cystogram. c. cystoscope.

b. cystography. d. cystotome.

9. Incision of the kidney to remove a calculus is called a

a. nephrectomy. c. nephrotomy.

b. nephrolithotomy. d. nephrotripsy.

10. Anx-raylmofthekidneysanduretersproducedafterinjectionofradiopaque

material into a vein is called an intravenous

a. urogram. c. urethrogram.

b. venogram. d. urethrograph.

11. A 24-year-old man has urinary stones in the renal pelvis. The term that refers to

these stones is

a. cholelithiasis. c. ureterolithiasis.

b. cystolithiasis. d. urolithiasis.

12. A patient who is undergoing renal lithotripsy using shock waves may be undergo-

ing which procedure?

a. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL)

b. Glomerulonephral shock wave lithotripsy (GSWL)

c. Nephral shock wave lithotripsy (NSWL)

d. Transurethral shock wave lithotripsy (TSWL)

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4

Self-Check 4.2

13. An x-ray series using contrast medium injected into a vein provides information

about the structure and function of the kidney, ureters, and bladder. This test is

referred to as

a. intravenous urography.

b. nephrotomography.

c. retrograde urography.

d. voiding cystourethrography.

14. A surgical incision of the kidney is called

a. cystotomy. c. pyelotomy.

b. nephrotomy. d. renotomy.

15. Removal of impurities from the blood is referred to as

a. diuresis.

b. hemodialysis.

c. peritoneal dialysis.

d. renalinsufciency.

Check your answers to the Practice Exercises with those in Appendix III of your

textbook. Check your answers to questions 1–15 with those at the end of this

study guide.

SECTION 4.3: REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM

Read the following section, then read Chapter 11 in your textbook.

Objectives

When you complete this section, you’ll be able to build, recognize, and analyze med-

ical terminologies involving the male and female reproductive system.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4

Thereproductivesystem’smainfunctionisproductionofoffspring.Specicorgans,

known as gonads and genitalia,servetofulllthisfunction.



Gonads: internal reproductive organs



testes produce spermatozoa (sperm cells)



ovaries produce ova (egg cells)



Genitalia: external reproductive organs

FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM

The female reproductive system functions to enable procreation and to support the devel-

opment and nourishment of the fetus during pregnancy and following childbirth.

STRUCTURES

Gynecology (gynec/o = female; -logy = study of) is the branch of medicine that deals with

the diseases and routine physical care of women’s reproductive systems, and the spe-

cialist responsible is referred to as a gynecologist.

Study the following word parts pertaining to the structures of the female reproductive

system.

WORD PARTS SPECIFIC TO THE FEMALE GENITALIA

Female Genitalia Meaning Word Association

cervic/o cervix Cervicitis istheinammationandirritation

of the cervix.

colp/o vagin/o vagina Repair of the vaginal wall is colporrhaphy.

Vaginitis istheinammationofthevagina.

gynec/o female The medical practice concerned with

the female reproductive system is

gynecology.

hyster/o, uter/o uterus Hysterectomy is the removal of the

uterus.

metro/o uterine tissue Irregular uterine bleeding in between

regular menstrual periods is known as

metrorhaggia.

oophor/o, ovar/o ovary Oophoritis or ovaritisistheinammation

of the ovaries.

salping/o uterine/fallopian tube Salpingectomy is the surgical removal of

the Fallopian tubes.

vulv/o vulva/external genitalia Removal of the female external genitalia

is known as vulvectomy.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4

WORD PARTS SPECIFIC TO THE FEMALE GENITALIA (continued)

Female Genitalia Meaning Word Association

Other Word Parts

-cidal killing Bactericidal agents kill bacteria.

cyst/o, vesic/o bladder, cyst, or sac A vesicovaginal stulaisanabnormal

opening between the vagina and the

bladder.

genit/o genitals The term genitourinary refers to the geni-

tal and urinary organs.

gonad/o genitals or reproduction Gonadotropins are hormones that

stimulate the gonads to perform their

reproductive and endocrine functions.

men/o month Menstruation refers to the monthly shed-

ding of the uterine lining.

-plasia development or formation Endometrial hyperplasia is the thickening

of the inner lining of the uterus.

rect/o rectum Rectovaginal stulasareabnormaltracts

that connect the lower gastrointestinal

tract with the vagina.

urethr/o urethra Urethrocele refers to the prolapse of the

female urethra into the vagina.

urin/o urine The urogenital system refers to the organ

system consisting of the reproductive and

the urinary organs.

The female reproductive system consists of external and internal structures. The external

genitalia, otherwise known as the vulva, structures include:



Mons pubis



Labia (labium = lip)



majora



minora



Clitoris



Gland openings (Bartholin’s, Skene’s gland)

Internal structures include:



Right and left ovaries



Functions



ovulation



production of hormones

 

estrogen

 

progesterone



Right and left fallopian tubes

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4



Uterus



Three layers



endometrium endo + metr + ium (endo = inside)



myometrium myo + metr + ium (my/o = muscle)



perimetrium peri + metr + ium (per = around)



Vagina



Special glands

The capability to reproduce begins at puberty. For females, this stage is characterized by

the start of menstruation or menses (men/o = month). The term menopause, on the other

hand, is the time that marks the end of the menstrual cycle.

Diseases, Disorders, and Diagnostic Terms

Examination of the female reproductive system may include physical assessment and

pelvic examination that can be done unaided or with the use of instruments.

Examination of the cervix and the walls of the vagina may be done with a vaginal specu-

lum. Collection of uterine and/or vaginal wall tissue for cytologic examination is known as

a Papanicolaou smear/test (abbreviated form = Pap smear).

Visual (-scopy) and radiologic examinations of the structures of the female reproductive

tract include:

Procedure Meaning Instrument Used

colposcopy Examination of the cervix using a special

magnifying device (microscope)

colposcope

laparoscopy Surgical diagnostic procedure used to

examine the abdominal structures

laparoscope

hysteroscopy Direct visualization of the cervical canal

and the uterine cavity

hysteroscope

hysterosalpingog-

raphy

X-ray examination of the uterus and

fallopian tubes with the use of a radi-

opaque dye

Pain, bleeding, and abnormal vaginal discharge are usual gynecologic concerns that war-

rant a visit to a gynecologist. Aside from the gynecologic problems previously mentioned,

menstrual irregularities are also common. Examples of these irregularities include:

men/o = month amenorrhea Absence of menstruation

-rrhea = discharge dysmenorrhea Difcultorpainfulmenstruation

-rrhagia = hemorrhage menorrhagia Abnormally heavy menstruation

metr/o = uterine tissue metrorrhagia Abnormal uterine bleeding

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4

Study the following list of diseases and disorders affecting the female reproductive

system.



Cervical polyp



Cervicocolpitis



Colpitis



Cystocele



Endometriosis



Endometritis



Fistula



vesicovaginal



rectovaginal



urethrovaginal



Hysteroptosis



Myoma



Oophoritis



Oophorosalpingitis



Ovarian carcinoma



Ovarian cyst



Pelvicinammatorydisease



Premenstrual syndrome



Salpingitis



Salpingocele



Uterine cancer



Uterinebroid



Vulva

Surgical and Therapeutic Interventions

Gynecological concerns may be treated using several methods.

Common Gynecological Concerns Interventions

infertility in vitro fertilization

amenorrhea and menopause hormone replacement therapy

prevention of pregnancy and sexually trans-

mitted illness

Contraception

 

natural

 

articial

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4

Some gynecological problems may need to be treated with surgery. The following list out-

lines several surgeries related to the female reproductive system.

Word Part Surgical Procedure Meaning

-plasty = surgical repair colpoplasty surgical repair of the vagina

-rrhaphy = suture colporrhaphy suture of the vagina

salpingorrhaphy suture of the uterine tube

-ectomy = excision hysterectomy excision of the uterus

oophorectomy excision of one or both ovaries

salpingectomy excision of the fallopian tube

salpingo-oophorectomy excision of the ovary and its fallopian

tube

vulvectomy excision of the vulva

Pregnancy and Childbirth

The branch of medicine that deals with the care of women during pregnancy and child-

birth is obstetrics, and the specialist is an obstetrician.

Pregnancy, otherwise referred to as gestation, begins at conception and ends at child-

birth. Prior to conception, fertilization occurs in the fallopian tube and is followed by

implantation of the zygote in the endometrium. The implanted embryo is called a fetus

after eight weeks. The presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in the urine or

blood may be a presumptive sign of pregnancy. The average duration of gestation from

the fertilization date is 266 days, or about three trimesters. Ultrasonography is a useful

diagnostic tool in monitoring the fetus’ development throughout the pregnancy.

Thesufx-natal refers to birth. Examples of relevant terms include:

Prenatal (pre + natal) period occurring before birth

Postnatal (post + natal) period occurring after birth

Perinatal (peri + natal) period occurring immediately before and after birth

Neonatal (neo + natal) period occurring from the birth of the child to one

month

Parturition pertains to childbirth:

Antepartum (ante + partum) before childbirth

Postpartum (post + partum) after childbirth

Gravidity pertains to the number of times a woman has been pregnant. Gravida may be

used to refer to a pregnant woman.

Primigravida (primi + gravida) awomanwhoispregnantforthersttime

Multigravida (multi + gravida) a woman who has been pregnant more than once

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4

Parity denotes the number of births a woman has had after 20 weeks of gestation. The

combining form -para is used to describe a woman who has given birth:

Unipara (uni + para) a woman who has given birth to one child

Multipara (multi + para) a woman who has had multiple births

Nullipara (null/o + para) a woman who has never given birth

Prior to giving birth, the pregnant woman goes through the labor process. The stages of

labor include:

1. Cervical dilation

2. Expulsion of the fetus

3. Expulsion of the placenta

Fetal presentation refers to the part of the fetus’ body that’s closest to the birth canal:



Cephalic presentation



Breech presentation



Shoulder presentation

The two types of delivery are:



Vaginal



Cesarean section (C-section)

The list below presents the most common obstetric terms:



Abruptio placentae



Amnion



Amniocentesis



Amniotomy



Cesarean section



Chorionic villus sampling



Down syndrome



Episiotomy



Erythroblastosis fetalis



Fetal monitoring



Placenta previa

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4

Female Breasts

The female breasts are paired mammary (mamm/o = breast) glands that are essential in

lactation (lact/o = milk + ation).

Common medical terminologies pertaining to the breasts are as follows:

Medical Term Word Parts Meaning

mammography mamm/o + graphy radiographic examination of the

breast

lumpectomy lump + ectomy removal of a breast lump or tumor

mastectomy mast/o + ectomy removal of the breast

mastalgia

mastodynia

mammalgia

mast/o + algia

mast/o + dynia

mamm/o + algia

pain in the breast

painful breast

mastitis mast/o + itis inammationofthebreast

mastoptosis mast/o + ptosis sagging breasts

mastopexy mast/o + pexy surgical procedure to lift the

breasts

mammoplasty mamm/o + plasty surgical repair of the breasts

MALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM

The male reproductive system is essential in the production of male sex hormones and

the production, sustenance, and delivery of sperm for reproduction.

Structures

The male reproductive system also consists of internal and external organs.

External organs include:



Penis



Scrotum

Internal organs include:



Testis



Epididymis



Vas deferens or ductus deferens

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4



Accessory glands



seminal vesicles



prostate gland



bulbourethral glands

The following table pertains to the word parts and word associations related to the male

reproductive organs.

Word Part Meaning Word Association

gon/o genitals or reproduction Gonads refer to the reproduc-

tive organs, namely the testes or

ovaries.

orchi/o, orchid/o,

test/o, testicu/o

testes Orchitis istheinammationofthe

testes.

Orchidopexy isthesurgicalxation

of an undescended testis.

Testosterone is the primary male

hormone.

Testicular pertains to the testicles.

pen/o penis Penile pertains to the penis.

prostat/o prostate Prostatectomy is the surgical

removal of the prostate gland.

scrot/o scrotum, bag Scrotal pertains to the scrotum.

semin/o semen The semen is otherwise referred to

as seminal uid.

ser/o serum Serology pertainstothescientic

study or diagnostic examination of

blood serum.

spermat/o spermatozoa (sperm) Spermatogenesis isdenedas

the formation of mature functional

sperm.

urethr/o urethra Urethral pertains to the urethra.

vas/o vessel or duct The vas deferens carries sperm

from the testicle to the urethra.

Diseases, Disorders, and Diagnostic Terms

The following list enumerates the most common disorders of the male reproductive sys-

tem.RefertoChapter11ofyourtextbookforthedenition.



Anorchidism



an + orchid/o + ism



Aspermia



a + sperm + ia



Benign prostatic hyperplasia



prostat/o + ic hyper + plasia



Cryptorchidism



crypt/o + orchid/o + ism

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1



Hydrocele



hydr/o + cele



Intersexuality



inter + sex/o + al + ity



Orchitis



orchi/o + itis



Prostatic carcinoma



prostat/o + ic carcin/o + oma



Prostatitis



prostat/o + itis



Testicular cancer



testicul/o



Testicular torsion



testicul/o

Surgical and Therapeutic Interventions

Disorders of the male reproductive system may be treated with surgery. Several surgical

interventions are as follows:

Word Part Surgical Procedure Meaning

-ectomy = excision orchidectomy/ orchiectomy surgical removal of the testicle

prostatectomy removal of all or part of the

prostate

vasectomy removal of all or part of the vas

deferens

-plasty = surgical repair orchidoplasty plastic surgery of the testis

-pexy = surgicalxation orchiopexy surgicalxationofanunde-

scended testis

-ostomy = new opening vasovasostomy surgical means of reconnecting the

ends of severed ductus deferens

circum = around circumcision removal of the foreskin that covers

the head of the penis

SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES OR

INFECTIONS

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or infections (STIs) are named as such because

these are disorders acquired through sexual contact. These disorders directly affect the

genitourinary system. Common symptoms of STDs or STIs include urethr + itis in males

and vagin + itis in females. Causative microorganisms include bacteria, viruses, protozoa,

fungi, or parasites.

Common STIs and their causative agents:



Bacteria



Gonorrhea



Syphilis

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 1



Chlamydial infection



Chancroid



Virus



AcquiredImmunodeciencySyndrome



Genital herpes



Genital warts



HepatitisB,C,D



Protozoa



Trichomoniasis (trich/o = hair)



Fungi



Candidiasis



Parasites



Pubic lice

Self-Check 4.3

Complete Practice Exercises 1–22 and A–H found in Chapter 11 of your

textbook, then answer questions 1–14.

Choose the correct answer.

1. A congenital condition of the newborn marked by mental retardation is called

a. Down syndrome. c. ectopic pregnancy.

b. cesarean section. d. jaundice.

2. Surgical suture of the ductus deferens is called

a. ductoplasty. c. vasectomy.

b. ductus venosus. d. vasorrhaphy.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4

Self-Check 4.3

3. Surgical removal of the end of the foreskin of the penis is called

a. castration. c. episiotomy.

b. circumcision. d. orchiectomy.

4. Menopause is also called

a. amenorrhea. c. dysmenorrheal.

b. climacteric. d. stula.

5. The term vaginal is a/an

a. noun that means the birth canal.

b. adjective that refers to the birth canal.

c. noun that means the womb.

d. adjective that refers to the womb.

6. Gestation means

a. after birth. c. childbirth.

b. before birth. d. pregnancy.

7. Bleeding from the uterus at any time other than during the menstrual period

is called

a. amenorrhea. c. menorrhagia.

b. dysmenorrheal. d. metrorrhagia.

8. A hormone that’s necessary for the development and maintenance of female sex-

ual characteristics is

a. amnion. c. testosterone.

b. estrogen. d. uterine.

9. Abnormal implantation of a fertilized ovum outside the uterus is called

 a. apelvicinammatorydisorder.

b. an ectopic pregnancy.

c. colpocervicitis.

d. cryptorchidism.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 4

Self-Check 4.3

10. A woman who is pregnant may consider taking which types of vitamins?

a. Antenatal c. Postnatal

b. Perinatal d. Prenatal

11. A woman who has had two live births is referred to as

a. nullipara. c. tripara.

b. secundipara. d. unipara.

12. A three-day-old boy is noted to have undescended testicles upon physical exam-

ination. This is referred to as

a. cryptorchidism. c. orchiopexy.

b. orchidopexy. d. seminal vesicles.

13. A healthcare professional specializes in breastfeeding. Which term refers to the

secretion of milk or breastfeeding?

a. Lactation c. Menses

b. Mammary d. Perimetrium

14. Women with gonorrhea are often asymptomatic. The causative agent for this

disease is

a. Chlamydia trachomatis.

b. Haemophilusducreyi.

c. Neisseria gonorrhoeae (gonococcus).

d. Treponema pallidum.

Check your answers to the Practice Exercises with those in Appendix III of your

textbook. Check your answers to questions 1–14 with those at the end of this

study guide.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

LESSON 5: INTEGUMENTARY,

NERVOUS, AND ENDOCRINE

SYSTEM TERMS

INTRODUCTION

The preceding chapters have acquainted you with medical terms pertaining to the

digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. This section will help you recognize med-

ical terminologies related to the integument, brain, spinal cord, special senses, and the

glands. Comprehensive discussion on these structures is presented in Chapters 12–15 of

your textbook.

SECTION 5.1: THE INTEGUMENTARY

SYSTEM

Read the following section, then read Chapter 12 in your textbook.

Objective

When you complete this section, you’ll be able to identify and be familiar with medi-

cal terminologies pertaining to the integumentary system.

The skin, otherwise referred to as the integument, is the biggest organ of the body. The

other structures included under this system include the appendages of the skin, hair,

nails, and the sweat and sebaceous glands.

The skin has several functions including the following, which are presented as a

mnemonic:



D vitamin synthesis



Elimination of wastes



Regulation of body temperature



Makes information readily available



Acts as a barrier

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

STRUCTURES OF THE INTEGUMENTARY

SYSTEM

The skin has two layers:



Epidermis epi + dermis (epi = above, derma = skin)



thin, outer layer of the skin



primarily consists of keratin, a sclero + protein



composedofvelayers(fromthedeepesttothemostsupercial)



stratum basale



stratum spinosum



stratum = layer



stratum granulosum



strata = plural form



stratum lucidum



stratum corneum



Dermis



thick layer under the epidermis



consists of connective tissue containing lymphatics, nerves, blood vessels,

hair follicles, sebaceous and sweat glands



Beneath the dermis is the subcutaneous adipose tissue.

sub (below) + cutane (skin) + ous + (pertaining to)



adip/o (fat)



stratum= layer



strata= plural form

The accessory skin structures are:



Hair:lamentmadeupofproteinthatgrowsfromfolliclesintheskin



Nail:akeratinizedstructurefoundattheendoftoesandngers



Sebaceous glands: glands that produce oil or waxy substance, called sebum



Sweat glands/sudoriferous glands: essential in temperature regulation and waste

elimination through perspiration



eccrine glands: open directly to the skin



apocrine glands: open into the hair follicles

The following table lists the word parts and word associations pertaining to the structures

of the integumentary system.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

Combining Forms/

Sufxes Meaning Word Association

adip/o, lip/o fat Adipocytes are fat cells.

axill/o axilla (armpit) Axillary pertains to the armpit or axilla.

cutane/o, derm/a, der-

m/o, dermat/o

skin Cutaneous horns are hard conical projec-

tions from the skin.

Dermatitis is a group of diseases that

resultsinskininammation.

Dermatology is the branch of medicine

that deals with the skin, nails, hair, and

their diseases.

erythemat/o erythema or redness Systemic lupus erythematosus or lupus

isachronicinammatorydiseasethat

attacks the immune system.

follicul/o follicle Inammationofthefolliclesisknownas

folliculitis.

ichthy/o sh Ichthyosis is a group of skin disorders

typiedbyhavingdry,scaly,orthickened

skin.

kerat/o tissue containing

keratin

Seborrheic keratosis is a common non-

cancerous skin growth in older adults.

onych/o, ungu/o nail Onychia istheinammationofthenail

folds.

Unguis incarnates refers to an ingrown

ngernailortoenail.

pil/o, trich/o hair The pilomotor muscles are responsible for

the erection of skin hair.

Trichology is the science that deals with

the structure, function, and diseases of

the skin.

seb/o sebum Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin condition

that frequently causes scaly patches and

red skin, commonly in the scalp.

sept/o infection/septum Septicemic or hemorrhagic rash refers

to a cluster of tiny blood spots similar to

pinpricks in the skin caused by infection in

the blood.

xer/o dry Simple dry skin is known as xeroderma.

-derm skin or germ layer Embryonic germ layers:



endoderm: innermost layer



mesoderm: middle layer



ectoderm: outermost layer

-static keeping stationary Fungistatic medications, commonly

prescribed in fungal skin infections, are

antifungal drugs that stop the growth of

fungus.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

DISEASES, DISORDERS, AND

DIAGNOSTIC TERMS

The skin, being the body’s physiological defense against the external environment, can

be exposed to numerous factors that can lead to disorders and diseases.

Skin Lesions

Visible abnormalities of the skin are collectively known as skin lesions. Lesions can be

primary or secondary.



Primary lesions are initial reactions to a problem that changes one of the compo-

nents of the skin.

Examples:



Macule:at,circumscribed,anddiscoloredareaoftheskinthatislessthan

1 cm in diameter



Papule: elevated, circumscribed, and discolored area of the skin with no visi-

bleuid



Plaque: elevated and circumscribed patches greater than 1 cm in diameter



Wheal: irregularly shaped and elevated lesions commonly seen in allergic

reactions



Bulla:auid-lled,elevatedskinlesiongreaterthan1cmindiameter



Vesicle:auid-lled,elevatedskinlesionlessthan1cmindiameter



Pustule:vesiclesthatarelledwithpusorcloudyuid



Secondary lesionsresultfrommodicationoftheprimarylesioncausedbytrauma

or other external factors.



Examples:



Atrophy: thinning of the epidermis



Ulcer: skin erosions that are irregularly shaped and may extend up to the

bones, as in the case of pressure ulcers



Fissures: splits in the skin



Scales: dry fragments of epidermis that have been sloughed off

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

Injuries to the Skin

Since the skin is exposed to several external factors, skin injuries such as wounds and

burns are common. A wound is a break in the integrity of the skin. There are several

types of wound, as indicated by the following terms:



Laceration: tearing of body tissue



Incision: a surgical cut or clean-cut wound



Puncture: a small hole caused by a small object



Abrasion: shallow wounds or scrapes that tear or rub off the epidermis



Contusion: rupture or damage to the blood vessels caused by trauma, but the skin

remains intact; otherwise known as a bruise



Burns: tissue injuries caused by extreme exposure to heat, chemicals, radiation,

electricity, and sunlight.



Types of burns include:



Supercial partial- thickness (1st degree):connedtothedermisonly



Deep partial-thickness (2nd degree): involves the dermis



Full-thickness (3rd degree): involves the epidermis, dermis, and at times,

the subcutaneous tissue



Deep full-thickness (4th degree): both the epidermis and dermis have

been sloughed off and the damage extends to the muscles and bones

The extent of burns may be estimated using the Rule of Nines. See Figure 12-11 in your

textbook.

Note: The Rule of Nines is used to estimate the total body surface area affected by a

burninanadultwhoseheightandweightareproportional.Modicationsareneededin

estimating the extent of burn injuries in children and infants.

Skin Disorders

Thefollowingaretypicalskindisorders.ReviewthedenitionsinChapter12ofyour

textbook.



Abscess



Albinism



Cellulitis



Contact dermatitis



Cyanosis



Dermatitis

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5



Discus lupus erythematosus



Frostbite



Furuncle



Hypopigmentation



Ichthyosis



Lipoma



Lyme disease



Malignant melanoma



Mycodermatitis



Necrosis



Pediculosis



Petechiae



Psoriasis

Disorders of the Accessory Skin Structures

Additional disorders of the integumentary system, particularly the accessory structures,

are discussed in Chapter 12 of your textbook. Study the following disorders.



Acne vulgaris



Folliculitis



Hidradenitis



Onychomycosis



Onychopathy



Seborrhea



Seborrheic dermatitis



Trichosis

SURGICAL AND THERAPEUTIC

INTERVENTIONS

There are numerous types of interventions used to treat skin disorders and diseases.

Several forms of surgeries may be employed to treat these problems, including:



Suturing



joining the lips or edges of a wound by stitching

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5



Stapling



using surgical staples to close the edges of an open wound



Liposuction (lipo + suction)



otherwise known as suction-assisted lipectomy



surgical removal of adipose tissue



Biopsy



removal of a small amount of tissue for examination



Cryosurgery (cry/o + surgery)



otherwise referred to as cryotherapy



using extreme cold to destroy abnormal or deceased tissue



Curettage



surgical cleaning or scraping with the use of a curette



Debridement



removal of unhealthy tissue from a wound to enhance healing



Dermabrasion



a procedure used to resurface the skin with the use of a rotating device



Electrosurgery (electr/o + surgery)



refers to several modalities that use electricity to cause destruction of tissue

Aside from surgery, skin disorders may also be managed with medications. These medi-

cations may be given using different routes, which may include:



Oral: medications administered via the mouth



Topical: drugs administered directly on the skin



Transdermal: medications that are administered on the intact skin to be absorbed

and delivered via the circulatory system

Themostcommonclassicationsofmedicationsordrugsadministeredare:



Antimicrobials: prevent infection



Bacteriostatic: drugs that inhibit the growth of bacteria



Bactericidal: drugs that kill bacteria



Antiperspirants: substance s that counteract perspiration

Additional treatment options may include:



Collagen injections: used to smooth out wrinkles



Electrolysis (electr/o + lysis)



means of destroying hair follicles through electric current

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

Self-Check 5.1

Complete Practice Exercises 1–10 and A–I found in Chapter 12 of your

textbook, then answer questions 1–15.

Choose the correct answer.

1. Deep, irregular erosions are called

 a. ssures. c. scales.

b. pustules. d. ulcers.

2. Damage to the skin, tissues, and blood vessels as a result of prolonged exposure

to cold is

a. cryogenesis. c. sclerosis.

b. frostbite. d. urticarial.

3. What’s the term for a sharply elevated, irregularly shaped, progressively enlarging

scar caused by excessive collagen during tissue repair?

a. Keloid c. Pediculosis

b. Nevus d. Verruca

4. The subcutaneous adipose tissue is located just under the ________.

a. dermis c. corium

b. epidermis d. cutis vera

5. An abscess is a/an

a. localized collection of pus.

b. round elevation of the skin seen in urticarial.

c. skin elevation resulting from hypertrophy of the epidermis.

d. excavation of the skin or mucous membrane.

6. Which term means any dry condition?

 a. Hidrosis c. Necrosis

b. Ichthyosis d. Xerosis

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

Self-Check 5.1

7. What does asepsis mean?

a. Substance that inhibits microorganisms

b. A form of infection

c. Sterile

d. Presence of microorganisms or their toxins

8. Which of the following is the oily secretion of the sebaceous glands?

a. Ecchymosis c. Lunula

b. Furuncle d. Sebum

 9. Whichofthefollowingisaninammatorydiseaseofthesebaceousglands,char-

acterized by pimples and blackheads?

a. Acne vulgaris c. Decubitus ulcer

b. Basal cell carcinoma d. Viral warts

10. The location of the epidermis is

a. above the dermis.

b. dispersed within the connective tissue.

c. under the dermis.

d. under the subcutaneous layer.

11. Which of the following methods can be used to destroy a hair follicle?

a. Electrolysis

b. Fissure

c. Lipectomy

d. Transcutaneous nerve stimulation

12. Excessive exposure to sun increases the risk for skin cancer, which is composed

of which types of cells?

a. Contusions c. Melanocytes

b. Keloids d. Onychocytes

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

Self-Check 5.1

13. A 14-year-old girl bought a necklace at a stand at the mall. She is now showing an

irritation along her neck where she wore it. The term for this condition is

a. acne vulgaris. c. folliculitis.

b. contact dermatitis. d. mycodermatitis.

14. Dermabrasion or laser treatments can be used for removal of

a. cellulitis. c. scales.

b. ssures. d. tattoos.

15. A 6-year-old girl skinned her knee, and her mother applied medicine to the broken

skintopreventinfection.Thetypeofmedicineisclassiedas

a. antimicrobial. c. aseptic.

b. antiperspirant. d. bacteriostatic.

Check your answers to the Practice Exercises with those in Appendix III of your

textbook. Check your answers to questions 1–15 at the end of this study guide.

SECTION 5.2: THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

AND PSYCHOLOGIC DISORDERS

Read the following section, then read Chapter 13 in your textbook.

Objective

When you complete this section, you’ll be able to build, identify, and analyze medical

terminologies and jargon related to the nervous system.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

The nervous system is a complex system that primarily serves as the body’s control cen-

ter,bothphysiologicallyandpsychologically.Morespecicfunctionsinclude:



Storage and processing of information



Stimulation of movement



Maintenance of homeostasis



Control of behavior, mood and thinking

Control of the nervous system can be categorized into:



Somatic nervous system



responsible for voluntary movements such as movement of the musculoskel-

etal system



Autonomic nervous system



controls involuntary movements such as breathing

Twotypesofnervebersthattransmitimpulsesare:



Sensory or afferent



receptors that receive information from the sensory organs and transmit this

information to the central nervous system



Motor or efferent



neurons that transmit information from the central nervous system to the mus-

cles and glands

STRUCTURES OF THE NERVOUS

SYSTEM

Two types of cells make up the nervous system, the neurons and neuroglial cells.



Neurons (neur/o = nerve)



transmit impulses to and from the brain



structures of a typical neuron:



dendrites: responsible for transmitting impulses to the cell body



soma or cell body: contains the nucleus



axon: conducts electrical impulses away from the cell body



myelin sheath: aids in the conduction of nerve impulses



neurilemma: also called the sheath of Schwann, it’s the outermost

layer of the axon

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5



Glial or neuroglial cells



primarily functions to support the neurons

The following table presents the word parts and word associations related to the nervous

system and psychological disorders.

Combining

Forms Meaning Word Associations

aut/o self Autoimmune diseases refer to disorders in which the

body’s immune system destroys healthy cells.

cerebell/o cerebellum Cerebellar stroke is a result of interruption of blood

supply to the cerebellum.

cerebr/o,

encephal/o

brain Cerebral edema is the accumulation of excessive

uidinthebrain.

cervic/o neck Pain in the neck is generally referred to as

cervicalgia.

coccyg/o coccyx Persistent pain in the coccyx or tailbone is

coccydynia.

crani/o cranium Craniotomy is the surgical removal of a part of the

skull.

dendr/o tree Dendrites are small projections of a nerve cell that

are essential for nerve transmission.

dur/o dura mater The outermost layer of the meninges is the dura

mater.

gli/o neuroglia or sticky

substance

Glial cells function to support and insulate neurons.

lumb/o lower back The lumbosacral regionofthespineconsistsofve

lumbar vertebrae and the sacrum.

mening/o meninges Inammationoftheprotectivemembranesofthe

brain and spinal cord is known as meningitis.

ment/o,

psych/o

mind Mentation refers to mental activity or the process of

thinking.

Psychology is the science that deals with the study of

the mind and behavior.

myel/o bone marrow or

spinal cord

Ageneraltermreferringtoinammationofthespinal

cord is referred to as myelitis.

nerv/o, neur/o nerve Neuritis istheinammationoftheperipheralnerves.

phren/o mind or

diaphragm

The study of the skull’s structure relative to one’s

character and mental faculties is phrenology.

physi/o nature Physiology is the branch of science that deals with

the natural and normal functions of living organisms.

sacr/o sacrum The sacrum is otherwise referred to as the sacral

area.

spin/o spine The term spinal pertains to the spine.

thorac/o thorax Thoracotomy is a surgical procedure used to open

the chest cavity.

ventricul/o ventricle A neurosurgical procedure that involves the creation

of an opening within the cerebral ventricle is known

as ventriculostomy.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

The nervous system is divided into the central and peripheral nervous systems.

Central Nervous System

The central nervous system consists of the brain and the spinal cord. Both of these struc-

tures are protected by:



Bones



the cranium or skull encases the brain



the spinal vertebrae protect the spinal cord



Cerebrospinal uid: clear,colorlessbodyuidproducedbytheventriclesofthe

brain



Meninges: membranes that line the skull and spinal cord



dura mater: outermost layer of the meninges



arachnoid: middle layer



pia mater: innermost layer

Brain

Parts and Functions of the Brain



Cerebrum: largest and uppermost part of the brain



frontal lobe: controls cognitive skills including problem solving, memory, lan-

guage, and judgment



parietal lobe: integrates sensory functions and processes language



occipital lobe: center of the visual perception system



temporal lobe: responsible for auditory perception



Diencephalon: upper end of the brain stem



thalamus: transmits sensory impulses from receptors in the different parts of

the body to the cerebral cortex



hypothalamus: produces hormones and regulates body temperature



Brainstem: posterior part of the brain that adjoins with the spinal cord



midbrain: associated with hearing, vision, alertness, wakefulness, and regula-

tion of temperature



pons: transmits information from the cortex and cerebellum



medulla oblongata: regulates breathing and heart and blood vessel function



Cerebellum: coordinates and regulates muscular activity

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

Spinal Cord



Transmits information to the brain through the spinal tracts



A cylindrical structure found in the vertebral column

Peripheral Nervous System

The peripheral nervous system consists of the nerves and ganglia outside the brain and

the spinal cord.

There are 31 pairs of spinal nerves:



8 cervical



12 thoracic



5 lumbar



5 sacral



1 coccygeal

DISEASES, DISORDERS, AND

DIAGNOSTIC TERMS

This section pertains to the diseases, disorders, and diagnostic terms pertaining to the

nervous system, including psychological problems.

Nervous System

Common diagnostic procedures involving the nervous system include:



Examination of the cerebrospinal uid



chemical analysis and microscopic examination may help indicate the pres-

ence of infection



lumbar puncture or spinal tap



 procedureusedtocollectcerebrospinaluid



Electroencephalography (EEG): electro + encephalo + graphy



monitoring method to record electrical activity of the brain



Scans used to assess the structural changes of the spinal cord and the brain



computed tomography



magnetic resonance imaging

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

Several disorders pertaining to the nervous system include:



Hematoma: collection of blood outside the blood vessels



epidural: accumulation of blood between the dura mater and the skull



subdural: buildup of blood below the dura mater



intracerebral: bleeding within the brain



Cerebrovascular accident (CVA): cerebro + vascul + ar

 

commonly referred to as stroke



disruption of the normal blood supply to the brain



transient ischemic attack (TIA)



 briefinterruptionincerebralbloodow



Hydrocephalus: accumulationofcerebrospinaluidintheskull



Aneurysm: weakening and bulging of the cerebral artery



Spinal cord injuries



potential causes include:

 

 excessivehyperexion

 

hyperextension

 

vertical compression

Studythesedisordersrelatedtothenervoussystem.DenitionsareoutlinedinChapter

13 of your textbook.



Akinesia



Anesthesia



Aphagia



Aphasia



Bradykinesia



Brain tumor



Cephalalgia



Cerebral concussion



Cerebral contusion



Cerebral hemorrhage



Cerebral palsy



Coma



Diplegia

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5



Dyslexia



Dysphagia



Dysphasia



Electromyography



Encephalitis



Encephalocele



Encephalomalacia



Encephalomeningitis



Encephalopathy



Epilepsy



Hemiplegia



Hyperkinesia



Meningitis



Meningocele



Multiple sclerosis



Myasthenia gravis



Myelitis



Myelography



Narcolepsy



Neuralgia



Neuritis



Neuropathy



Parkinson’s disease



Peripheral neuropathy



Shingles

Psychological Disorders



psych/o = mind



otherwise referred to as mental illness, mental disorders, or psychiatric disorder



patterns of thought or behavior that are outside the expected norms and impair the

individual’s ability to function in ordinary life

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

Psychologicaldisorderscanbeclassiedinto:



Neurodevelopmental disorders: disabilities associated with the growth and develop-

ment of the brain or central nervous system



dementia



autism



attentiondecitdisorder



Anxiety disorders:disabilitiescharacterizedbysignicantfeelingsofworry,anxiety,

or fear



post-traumatic stress disorder



dissociative disorder



obsessive-compulsive disorder



phobias



agoraphobia



zoophobia



phobophobia



arachnophobia



acrophobia



claustrophobia



pyrophobia



Eating disorders: pertains to abnormal eating habits that negatively impact a per-

son’s health



anorexia nervosa



bulimia



Mood disorders: otherwise known as affective disorders, which collectively

describes all types of depression and bipolar disorders



clinical depression



mania



pyromania



kleptomania



bipolar disorder



Sexual disorders: diseases characterized by diminished or disturbance in sexual

desire that’s unrelated to a general medical condition



paraphilia

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5



Somatoform disorders (somat/o = body, form = shape): disorders that cause unex-

plained physical symptoms



somatic symptom disorder



illness anxiety disorder



neurasthenia (neur + asthenia)



pseudomania (pseudo + mania)



Personality disorders: maladaptive patterns of behavior and cognition that affect a

person’s ability to form normal and healthy relationships



paranoia



antisocial personality disorder

SURGICAL AND THERAPEUTIC

INTERVENTIONS

Surgery may be indicated for some disorders of the nervous system. Some of these sur-

geries are presented in the following table:

craniotomy crani/o + tomy surgical opening into the skull

craniectomy crani/o + ectomy removal or excision of a part of the skull

cranioplasty crani/o + plasty surgical repair of the skull

neuroplasty neur/o + plasty plastic surgery to repair a nerve

neurorraphy neur/o + rrhapy suturing of a cut nerve

neurolysis neuro + lysis breaking down or destruction of nervous

tissue

Additional interventions include the following:



Shunts:asmallpassagethatallowsmovementofuidfromonebodypartto

another



ventriculoperitoneal shunt (ventricul/o = ventricle, periton/o = peritoneum, -eal

= pertaining to)



used in the treatment of hydrocephalus



 shuntscerebrospinaluidfromtheventriclesofthebraintothe

peritoneum



transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (trans = across + cutane = skin + ous =

pertaining to)



using electric current to stimulate the nerves for therapeutic purposes



stereotactic radiosurgery



the use of ionizing radiation to treat functional abnormalities and small tumors

of the brain

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

Medications used to treat nervous system disorders include:



Analgesics: pain relievers



Hypnotics: produce a calming effect



Anticonvulsants: relieve or prevent convulsions



Antipyretics: relieve fever

Self-Check 5.2

Complete Practice Exercises 1–12 and A–G found in Chapter 13 of your

textbook, then answer questions 1–14.

Choose the correct answer.

1. Surgical repair of a nerve or nerves is called

a. neurolysis.

b. neuropathy.

c. neuroplasty.

d. neurosclerosis.

2. The part of the nervous system that consists of various nerve processes and

receptors is the _____ nervous system.

a. central

b. integrative

c. peripheral

d. subdural

3. Paralysis affecting like parts on both sides of the body is

a. cerebral palsy.

b. diplegia.

c. hemiplegia.

d. paraplegia.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

Self-Check 5.2

4. A large category of psychiatric disorders in which the symptoms are distressing

to the person, reality testing is within normal limits, and behavior doesn’t violate

gross social norms refers to

a. dysphagia.

b. neurosis.

c. psychosis.

d. pyromania.

 5. What’sthetermforanincreasedaccumulationofcerebrospinaluidwithinthe

brain?

a. Cephalalgia

b. Cerebral concussion

c. Cerebral hemorrhage

d. Hydrocephalus

6. Radiographic inspection of the spinal cord with injection of a radiopaque sub-

stance is called

a. electromyography.

b. electroencephalography.

c. myelography.

d. myogram.

7. The supportive network of the nervous system is the

a. cerebellum.

b. neuroglia.

c. neurosclera.

d. somatic nerve.

8. Which of the following terms means a nervous condition characterized by chronic

weakness and fatigue?

a. Narcolepsy

b. Neurasthenia

c. Neurolysis

d. Neurosclerosis

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

Self-Check 5.2

9. A morbid fear of closed places is

a. acrophobia.

b. agoraphobia.

c. claustrophobia.

d. pyrophobia.

10. The term for localized dilation of the wall of a cerebral artery is

a. cerebral aneurysm.

b. cerebral contusion.

c. epidural hematoma.

d. intracerebral hematoma.

11. The term for a graphic record of the contracting of a muscle as a result of electri-

cal stimulation is

a. electroencephalogram.

b. electroencephalography.

c. electromyogram.

d. electromyography.

12. Your client complains of severe headaches. What’s the proper term to document

in the chart?

a. Analgesic

b. Cephalgia

c. Cerebral contusion

d. Neuralgia

13. You’recompletinganinitialexaminationona74-year-oldman.Hisdaughter

attends the appointment with him and reports that she has noticed progressive

confusion, disorientation, and deterioration of intellectual capacity and function.

Thepatientdoesn’tshowaspeechdisturbanceorrestlessness.Allofthesend-

ings indicate

a. Alzheimer’s disease.

b. bradykinesia.

c. dementia.

d. Parkinson’s disease.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

Self-Check 5.2

14. A patient plays with a lighter during the subjective interview, occasionally trying to

lightit.Hereportshavingbeendiagnosedwithanobsessionwithre.Aperson

with his condition can be documented as a

a. kleptomaniac.

b. megalomaniac.

c. pyromaniac.

d. pseudomaniac.

Check your answers to the Practice Exercises with those in Appendix III of your

textbook. Check your answers to questions 1–14 above with those at the end of

this study guide.

SECTION 5.3: SPECIAL SENSE ORGANS

OF THE PERIPHERAL NERVOUS

SYSTEM

Read the following section, then read Chapter 14 in your textbook.

Objective

When you complete this section, you’ll be able to build, recognize, and analyze med-

ical terminologies and jargon pertaining to the special senses.

Special senses refer to senses that have specialized organs dedicated to them. These

senses include the senses of sight, taste, hearing, smell, and touch.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

EYES

The organs of the visual system are the eyes. Aside from providing vision, they also

enable photo-response functions.

Eye Structures

The eyes are made up of these external structures:



Pupil: opening in the middle of the iris



Iris: colored circle that surrounds the pupil



Sclera: tough, white, outer covering of the eye



Conjunctiva: thin, mucous membrane that lines the eyelid



Lacrimal glands: produces lacrimal uid(tears)



Lacrimal duct: a short tube in the inner corner of the eyelid that serves as a pas-

sageway of tears



Lacrimal sac: receives tears from the lacrimal duct



Nasolacrimal duct: transports tears from the lacrimal sac of the eye into the nasal

cavity

The eyeball is made up of several layers, namely:



Sclera



Cornea: the transparent, anterior part of the eye that refracts light



Choroid: vascular layer of the eye that supplies blood to the retina

Internal structures of the eye include:



Lens: transparent structure posterior to the iris that bends light rays



Anterior chamber:thecompartmentbetweenthecorneaandtheiristhat’slledwith

aqueous humor



Vitreous chamber: the compartment behind the lens and anterior to the optic nerve

thatislledwithagel-likesubstanceknownasthevitreous humor



Retina: thin layer of tissue that lines the posterior portion of the eye where stimula-

tion by light occurs, leading to the sensation of vision



Optic nerve: known as the second cranial nerve, it carries visual information from

the eye to the brain



Optic disc: the part of the eye where the optic nerve crosses the retina

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

The following table lists the common word parts pertaining to the eyes.

Combining Form Meaning Word Association

choroid/o choroid Choroidal melanoma is a primary cancer of the

eye.

chrom/o color Chromotherapy or color therapy is the use of col-

ors to promote healing.

conjunctiv/o conjunctiva Inammationoftheconjunctivaisconjunctivitis or

pink eye.

corne/o, kerat/o cornea The presence of an open sore in the cornea is

known as a corneal ulcer.

Keratoconus is a condition in which the cornea

progressively thins.

dacry/o, lacrim/o tear The tear sac is also known as the dacrocyst.

Lacrimation is the secretion of tears.

ir/o, irid/o iris Iritis istheinammationoftheiris.

ocul/o, ophthalm/o eye The oculomotor nerve is responsible for the

movement of the eyeballs and the eyelids.

Ophthalmology is the science that deals with the

anatomy, functions, and disorders of the eyeball

and its orbit.

opt/o, optic/o vision Optometry is the practice responsible for exam-

ining visual defects of the eye and prescribing

corrective lenses.

An optician isresponsiblefordesigning,tting,

and dispensing corrective lenses for correcting a

person’s vision.

presby/o old or old age Presbyopia is the gradual loss of one’s ability to

focus on objects that are nearby.

pupill/o pupil Pupillometry refers to the measurement of pupil

size.

retin/o retina Retinopathy refers to a disorder of the retina that

may result in visual loss.

ton/o tone or tension A tonometer is an instrument used to measure

the intraocular pressure in the eye.

Diseases, Disorders, and Diagnostic Terms

Eye disorders are frequent occurrences. Common tests to check for the presence of

vision problems include:



Routine physical examination



Snellen chart: an eye chart used to measure visual acuity



visual elds assessment

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5



ophthalmoscopy: examination of the internal structures of the eyes using an

ophthalmoscope

 

tonometry: test used to measure intraocular pressure using a tonometer

The most common refractive disorders of the eyes are:



Myopia: nearsightedness



Hyperopia: farsightedness



Astigmatism: uneven focusing of the image resulting in blurred vision

Review the additional irregularities or abnormal conditions of the eye.



Amblyopia



Presbyopia



Blepharitis



Cataract



Colorvisiondeciencies



achromatic vision



achromatopsia



Daltonism



Conjunctivitis



Glaucoma



Hordeolum



Macular degeneration



Nyctalopia



Photophobia



Ptosis



Retinal detachment



Retinopathy

Surgical and Therapeutic Interventions



Blepharoplasty: surgical repair of droopy eyelids



Keratoplasty: otherwise known as corneal transplant, a surgical procedure to

replace part of the cornea with corneal tissue from a donor



Ophthalmic cryosurgery: using extreme cold for the excision of cataract



Cryoextraction: the surgical removal of a cataract with the use of a cryoprobe

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5



Intraocular lens transplant: asurgicalprocedurethatinvolvesplacinganarticial

lens inside the eye



Laser retinal photocoagulation: using a laser to seal or destroy abnormal leaking

blood vessels in the retina



Laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK): a pain-free procedure that reshapes

the cornea to allow the light entering the eye to be focused on the retina

Eye medications frequently prescribed for therapy are:



Mydriatics: drugs that cause dilation of the pupils



Miotics: agents that cause constriction of the pupils

THE EARS

Aside from being the organs of hearing, the ears are also essential in maintaining a

sense of equilibrium.

Ear Structures

The human ear is made up of three general parts: external, middle, and inner.



External ear: outer, visible part of the ear



pinna/auricle



tympanic membrane: otherwise called the eardrum, receives sound waves

from the outer air



Middle ear: consists of three ossicles, which transmit sounds from the outer to the

inner ear



malleus



incus



stapes



Inner ear: contains the organs for hearing and balance



semicircular canals: organ of balance



cochlea: receives sounds in the form of vibrations

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

The following table lists common word parts pertaining to the structures of the ears.

Combining Form/ Sufx Meaning Word Association

acoust/o, audi/o hearing The acoustic or vestibulocochlear nerve serves

the organs of equilibrium and hearing.

An audiometer is an instrument used to mea-

sure hearing acuity.

adenoid/o adenoids Adenoidectomy is the surgical removal of the

adenoids.

aur/o, auricul/o, ot/o ear Aural pain refers to earache.

Auriculotherapy is a healthcare procedure in

which the auricle is stimulated to diagnose and

treat other health problems.

An otoscope is a device used to look into the

ears.

cerumin/o ear wax Ceruminolytics are substances used to soften

the cerumen.

cochle/o cochlea Cochlear implants are electronic medical

devices that are used to replace the function of

the impaired inner ear.

myring/o, tympan/o eardrum Myringitis istheinammationofthetympanic

membrane.

Tympanoplasty is the surgical repair of the tym-

panic membrane.

Diseases, Disorders, and Diagnostic Terms

Diagnosing ear disorders may be accomplished using several methods. Some of these

methods include:



Otoscopic examination or otoscopy: (oto + scop + ic), (oto + scopy)



test that involves looking into the ear with an otoscope or auriscope



Audiometer: (audio + meter)



electronic device used to measure hearing



audiologist: a medical professional trained to identify, diagnose, treat, and

monitor disorders of the auditory system



Tuning fork tests: assess hearing loss



Weber’s test: detects unilateral hearing loss



Rinne’s test: differentiates between conductive and sensorineural hearing

loss

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

Otitis (oto + itis)isthegeneraltermusedtodescribeinammationoftheear.



Otitis externa: infection of the external ear



Otitis media:inammationofthemiddleear



myringitis (myring/o + itis):inammationofthetympanicmembrane



mastoiditis (mastoid/o + itis): inammationorinfectionofthemastoidbone



Otitis interna: inammationoftheinnerear

Other ear disorders include:



Otosclerosis (oto + sclerosis)



abnormal bone growth in the middle ear, causing disruption of the sound to

travel from the middle to the inner ear



Tinnitus: hearing an external sound when there is no external sound present; can

be perceived as ringing, buzzing, or clicking sound



Vertigo: sensation of feeling off balance

Surgical and Therapeutic Interventions

Hearing aids are electronic devices commonly used for clients with partial hearing loss.

These devices amplify sounds, which help enhance hearing. For clients with complete

hearing loss, cochlear implants may be indicated.

Surgical procedures involving the ears include:



Otoplasty: (oto + plasty)



otherwise known as ear pinning



the ears are surgically moved closer to the head



Tympanostomy: (tympan/o + ostomy)



otherwise referred to as myringotomy



creation of incision or opening in the tympanic membrane to relieve the pres-

surecausedbybuildupofuidorpus

To treat bacterial infections, antibiotics are prescribed. Ceruminolytics (cerumin/o + lyt-

ics), on the other hand, are substances that are instilled into the eardrum to soften or

loosen the cerumen or ear wax.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

The Skin

Theskin,beingthelargestorganofthebody,containsreceptorsthatrespondtospecic

stimuli:

Types of Receptors Word Parts

Meaning sensory cells or organs

responsive to:

chemoreceptor chem/o chemical stimuli

mechanoreceptor mechan/o mechanical distortions such as touch

or pressure

nociceptor noc/i + receptor damaging or painful stimuli

thermoreceptor therm/o temperature changes

*photoreceptor phot/o light (only the eyes have these

receptors)

THE MOUTH AND NOSE

The taste buds, the organs of taste, have chemoreceptors that are found on the sur-

face of the mouth and the nose. The four basic taste sensations are sweet, sour, bitter,

and salty.

The organ for olfaction, the sense of smell, is the nose. Disorders pertaining to the sense

of smell include:



Anosmia: receptor loss of the sense of smell (an + (-osmia = sense of smell))



Hyperosmia: receptor abnormally increased sensitivity to odors (hyper + osmia)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

Self-Check 5.3

Complete Practice Exercises 1–12 and A–H found in Chapter 14 of your

textbook, then answer questions 1–15.

Choose the correct answer.

1. Which of the following is impairment of vision due to advancing years or old age?

a. Astigmatism c. Myopia

b. Hyperopia d. Presbyopia

2. Which term means capable of being heard?

a. Accommodation c. Aural

b. Audible d. Auricular

3. The term for farsightedness is

a. astigmatism. c. hyperopia.

b. exophthalmos. d. myopia.

4. Which structure is a spiral tunnel that contains the sense of hearing?

a. Choroid c. Conjunctiva

b. Cochlea d. Cornea

 5. Whichtermmeansinammationoftheeyelid?

a. Blepharitis c. Photophobia

b. Ophthalmitis d. Ptosis

6. What does the combining form ocul/o refer to?

a. Ear c. Nerve

b. Eye d. Nervous sensation

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

Self-Check 5.3

7. Which of the following are special receptors that initiate the sense of pain?

a. Chemoreceptors c. Nociceptors

b. Mechanoreceptors d. Thermoreceptors

8. Which term means a weakness in perceiving colors distinctly?

a. Achromatic vision c. Daltonism

b. Achromatopsia d. Ménière disease

9. Which of the following are widely distributed in the skin and are sensitive to touch

or pressure?

a. Chemoreceptors c. Nociceptors

b. Mechanoreceptors d. Thermoreceptors

10. A young patient requires an eye patch because of reduced vision in one eye that

can’t be corrected by glasses. This condition is referred to as

a. achromatopsia. c. myopia.

b. blepharitis. d. strabismus.

11. A 46-year-old woman has recently developed farsightedness that appears to be

worsening with age. This is referred to as

a. amblyopia. c. myopia.

b. astigmatism. d. presbyopia.

12. A physician uses an otoscope to examine a patient’s ear. She notes that the

patienthasinammationofthetympanicmembrane,alsoreferredtoas

a. blepharitis. c. myringitis.

b. mastoiditis. d. otitis.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

Self-Check 5.3

13. A 30-year-old man visits his physician and complains of hearing loss. The physi-

cian suspects there’s hardening of the ear, which results in hearing impairment.

This disorder is

a. otomycosis. c. otorrhea.

b. otoplasty. d. otosclerosis.

14. A 17-year-old girl developed a sty following the use of false eyelashes. Resulting

from an infected sebaceous gland of an eyelash, a sty is also called a

a. blepharitis. c. conjunctivitis.

b. cerumen. d. hordeolum.

15. A test for visual acuity uses letters and numbers or symbols arranged in decreas-

ing size from top to bottom. Which of the following is used in the test just

described?

a. LASIK c. Otoscope

b. Ophthalmoscope d. Snellen chart

Check your answers to the Practice Exercises with those in Appendix III of your

textbook. Check your answers to questions 1–15 with those at the end of this

study guide.

SECTION 5.4: THE ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

Read the following section, then read Chapter 15 in your textbook.

Objectives

When you complete this section, you’ll be able to identify, build, and analyze medical

terms related to the endocrine system.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

The endocrine (endo + crine) system, otherwise known as the hormonal system, is

essential in the regulation of body activities through the production and release of

chemical substances known as hormones. Unlike exocrine glands, endocrine glands

are ductless and secrete their hormones directly to the bloodstream. A dysfunction

(dys = bad) of the endocrine glands can lead to:



Hyposecretion:deciencyinhormoneproduction



Hypersecretion: excess in hormone production

STRUCTURES OF THE ENDOCRINE

SYSTEM

Hormonessecretedbytheendocrineglandsprimarilyaffectaspecicorganorstructure,

referred to as the target organ.

The release of hormones by the endocrine glands can be achieved in two ways:



The nervous systems initiates the release of hormones.



The pituitary gland, or the master gland, stimulates the other glands to produce

hormones.

Major Glands of the Endocrine System Hormones Produced

pituitary or hypophysis antidiuretic hormone, growth hormone

pineal melatonin

thyroid thyroxine

parathyroid parathyroid hormone

islets of Langerhans insulin

adrenal glands adrenaline/epinephrine, cortisone

ovaries estrogen

testes androgen

The following table lists the word parts pertaining to the endocrine system.

Combining Forms Meaning Word Association

aden/o gland Adenocarcinoma is a type of cancer that starts

in the glands.

adren/o, adrenal/o adrenal glands Adrenalectomy is the surgical removal of one or

both adrenal glands.

andr/o male or masculine Aging-related hormonal changes in men is

referred to as andropause.

gigant/o giant Gigantism refers to abnormally large growth

secondary to excessive production of growth

hormone.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

Combining Forms Meaning Word Association

gonad/o gonad Gonadotropins are hormones that act on the

gonads.

insulin/o insulin An increase in the amount of circulating insulin

in the blood is known as hyperinsulinism.

iod/o iodine Iodized salt is a form of table salt in which iodine

was added.

myx/o mucus Myxedema is a condition where mucopolysac-

charides are deposited in the dermis, causing

swelling of the affected area.

pancreat/o pancreas Pancreatitis isinammationofthepancreas.

parathyroid/o parathyroid Parathyroidectomy is the surgical removal of

one or more parathyroid glands.

pituitar/o,

hypophys/o

pituitary gland Excessive production of growth hormone is

known as hyperpituitarism.

ren/o, nephr/o kidney Renal failure is otherwise known as kidney

failure.

Nephrology is the branch of medicine that is

concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of

diseases of the kidneys.

thyr/o, thyroid/o thyroid gland Thyroiditis istheinammationofthethyroid

gland.

toxic/o poison Toxicology is the science concerned with the

study of the adverse effects of chemical sub-

stances to living organisms.

DISEASES, DISORDERS, AND

DIAGNOSTIC TERMS

Examination of the endocrine glands usually involves the use of invasive procedures,

suchasextractionofbloodtomeasurehormonelevels.However,unlikemostglands,

the testicles and the thyroid glands are accessible through routine physical examination.

A thyroid gland that has a normal function is referred to as euthyroid. Abnormalndings

include enlargement and the presence of masses. The following terms pertain to the thy-

roid gland:



Hyperthyroidism: (hyper + thyroid/o + ism)



a condition which involves over activity of the thyroid gland



exophthalmos (ex + ophthalmos)



protrusion of the eyeballs



 classicndingwithhyperthyroidism



goiter: enlarged thyroid gland

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5



Hypothyroidism: (hypo + thyroid/o + ism)



insufcienthormoneproductionbythethyroidgland

Aside from health conditions affecting the thyroid gland, diabetes is also a common dis-

order affecting the endocrine system. Note the difference between diabetes insipidus and

diabetes mellitus.



Diabetes insipidus:deciencyofantidiuretichormoneleadingtofrequenturination



Diabetes mellitus:deciencyorimproperuseofinsulinresultinginhyperglycemia

Classic Signs and Symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus

Signs and

Symptoms Word Parts Meaning

polyuria

poly +

(many)

-uria (urination) frequent urination

polydipsia -dipsia (thirst) excessive drinking or thirst

polyphagia -phagia (eating) excessive hunger or increased

appetite

hyperglycemia hyper (increased) glyc/o (sugar)

-emia (blood)

abnormally high blood glucose

level

glycosuria glyc/o (sugar) -uria (urination) excretion of sugar in the urine

Other disorders of the endocrine system are outlined as follows.



Acromegaly



Adenoma



Cretinism



Dwarsm



Gigantism



Hyperinsulinism



Hyperparathyroidism



Hypoglycemia



Hypoparathyroidism



Hypopituitarism



Myxedema



Thyrotoxicosis

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

SURGICAL AND THERAPEUTIC

INTERVENTIONS

Theusualrstlineoftreatmentforendocrinedisordersismedicationtherapy:



Antithyroid drugs: indicated for hyperthyroidism



Insulin: may be administered via injection or pump for clients with type 1 diabetes



Hypoglycemic medications or glucose-lowering agents: given for clients with type 2

diabetes

For other endocrine system disorders, surgery may be necessary.

Surgery/

Procedure Word Parts Meaning

hypophysectomy hypophys/o (pituitary)

+ ectomy

(excision/

removal)

surgical removal of the

pituitary gland

thyroidectomy thyroid/o (thyroid) excision of the thyroid

gland

adrenalectomy adren/o (adrenal glands) excision of an adrenal

gland

adenectomy aden/o (gland) surgical removal of a gland

Self-Check 5.4

Complete Practice Exercises 1–10 and A–H found in Chapter 15 of your

textbook, then answer questions 1–14.

Choose the correct answer.

1. Excessive secretion of insulin is called

a. cretinism. c. hypoinsulinism.

b. hyperinsulinism. d. myxedema.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

Self-Check 5.4

2. The four glands that lie beside the thyroid gland and are responsible for regulating

calcium and phosphorus levels in the body are called the

a. adrenals. c. pineals.

b. parathyroids. d. pituitaries.

3. Which of the following is the gland that lies above the kidney?

a. Adrenal c. Pineal body

b. Pancreas d. Thyroid

4. A general term for chemical substances that are discharged into the bloodstream

and used in some other part of the body is

a. ducts. c. exocrines.

b. endocrines. d. hormones.

5. An endocrine gland that can be palpated and examined in a physical examination

is the

a. adrenal. c. sweat gland.

b. salivary gland. d. thyroid.

6. The clusters of cells within the pancreas that perform an endocrine function are

the

a. hypophyseal bodies. c. pineal bodies.

b. islets of Langerhans. d. thyroxine cells.

7. In the term hypophysis,thesufx-physis means

a. above. c. growth.

b. below. d. secretion.

8. In the term myxedema,theprexmyx- or myxo- means

a. increased. c. mucus.

b. male or masculine. d. secrete.

(Continued)

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Lesson 5

Self-Check 5.4

9. The pineal gland is

a. a cluster of cells in the pancreas.

b. a cluster of cells in the thyroid.

c. attached by a stalk to the pituitary gland.

d. attached to the posterior part of the brain.

10. In the term gonadotropic,thesufx-tropic means

a. Origin. c. secrete.

b. ovaries or testes. d. stimulate.

11. A24-year-oldmanhasadisorderassociatedwithadeciencyofantidiuretichor-

mone(ADH)orinabilityofthekidneystorespondtoADH.Thisdisorderis

a. diabetes insipidus. c. hypopituitarism.

b. diabetes mellitus. d. hyposecretion.

12. A 31-year-old woman with type 1 diabetes mellitus has a portable battery-oper-

ated instrument that delivers a measured amount of insulin through the abdominal

wall and delivers doses of insulin according to the body’s needs. This instrument

is called

a. a hypoglycemia pump. c. an insulin pump.

b. a hyperglycemia pump. d. islets of Langerhans.

13. A patient with type 1 diabetes inadvertently administered too much insulin. Which

of the following is the biggest concern for this patient?

a. Glycosuria c. Hypoglycemia

b. Hyperglycemia d. Hypoinsulinism

14. Excessive secretion of growth hormone in children can lead to gigantism, whereas

it can lead to _____ in adults if secreted after maturity.

a. acromegaly c. dwarsm

b. cretinism d. myxedema

Check your answers to the Practice Exercises with those in Appendix III of your

textbook. Check your answers to questions 1–14 with those at the end of this

study guide.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Self-Check Answers

SELF-CHECK ANSWERS

Self-Check 1.2

1. b

2. c

3. c

4. d

5. c

6. b

7. b

8. a

9. c

10. c

11. a

12. d

Self-Check 1.3

1. d

2. b

3. c

4. b

5. d

6. c

7. b

8. b

9. b

10. b

11. b

12. b

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Self-Check Answers

Self-Check 2.1

1. b

2. b

3. d

4. d

5. a

6. a

7. c

8. b

9. a

10. a

11. a

12. a

13. d

Self-Check 2.2

1. c

2. c

3. c

4. b

5. b

6. b

7. b

8. c

9. b

10. d

11. d

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Self-Check Answers

Self-Check 3.1

1. a

2. c

3. b

4. a

5. c

6. b

7. c

8. b

9. a

10. a

11. a

12. b

13. c

14. b

15. c

Self-Check 3.2

1. a

2. b

3. c

4. b

5. a

6. b

7. d

8. b

9. d

10. a

11 a

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Self-Check Answers

Self-Check 3.3

1. d

2. a

3. c

4. c

5. a

6. b

7. d

8. c

9. a

10. d

11. c

12. b

13. d

14. d

Self-Check 4.1

1. a

2. b

3. a

4. b

5. b

6. b

7. c

8. d

9. c

10. d

11. c

12. a

13. a

14. b

15. b

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Self-Check Answers

Self-Check 4.2

1. b

2. c

3. a

4. b

5. c

6. a

7. b

8. c

9. b

10. a

11. d

12. a

13. a

14. b

15. b

Self-Check 4.3

1. a

2. d

3. b

4. b

5. b

6. d

7. d

8. b

9. b

10. d

11. b

12. a

13. a

14. c

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Self-Check Answers

Self-Check 5.1

1. d

2. b

3. a

4. c

5. a

6. d

7. c

8. d

9. a

10. a

11. a

12. c

13. b

14. d

15. a

Self-Check 5.2

1. c

2. c

3. b

4. b

5. d

6. c

7. b

8. b

9. c

10. a

11. c

12. b

13. c

14. c

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

Self-Check Answers

Self-Check 5.3

1. d

2. b

3. c

4. b

5. a

6. b

7. c

8. c

9. b

10. d

11. d

12. c

13. d

14. d

15. d

Self-Check 5.4

1. b

2. b

3. a

4. d

5. d

6. b

7. c

8. c

9. d

10. d

11. a

12. c

13. c

14. a